Insular arctic ground squirrels (Spermophilus parryii) of the North Pacific: indigenous or exotic?
We lack critical information for oceanic archipelagos worldwide related to the origin and status of insular faunas. In southwestern Alaska, in particular, a need exists to tease apart whether specific insular populations are naturally occurring or are the result of exotic introductions by humans. We...
| Published in: | Journal of Mammalogy |
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
| Format: | Text |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Oxford University Press
2010
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://jmammal.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/91/6/1401 https://doi.org/10.1644/09-MAMM-A-386.1 |
| Summary: | We lack critical information for oceanic archipelagos worldwide related to the origin and status of insular faunas. In southwestern Alaska, in particular, a need exists to tease apart whether specific insular populations are naturally occurring or are the result of exotic introductions by humans. We analyzed variation in mitochondrial sequences of the cytochrome- b gene and 8 nuclear microsatellite loci across 215 individuals representing 17 populations (12 insular) to refine our understanding of the history of the previously identified Southwest clade of arctic ground squirrels ( Spermophilus parryii ). We found significant geographic structure that suggests long-term isolation and diversification (Ushugat Island and Cold Bay), but we also documented closely related populations that are likely the result of human-mediated introductions. The latter instances (Kavalga and Unalaska islands) corroborate reports from early Alaska explorers. |
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