Insular arctic ground squirrels (Spermophilus parryii) of the North Pacific: indigenous or exotic?

• Published in: Journal of Mammalogy
• Main Authors: Cook, Joseph A., Eddingsaas, Aren A., Loxterman, Janet L., Ebbert, Steve, MacDonald, S. O.
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford University Press 2010
• Subjects: Feature Articles; Arctic; Pacific; Alaska
• Online Access: http://jmammal.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/91/6/1401; https://doi.org/10.1644/09-MAMM-A-386.1

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.