Cryptic population structure reveals low dispersal in Iberian wolves

Area of Science:

• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
• Conservation Genetics
• Wildlife Management

Background:

• Highly mobile mammalian carnivores typically exhibit high gene flow across large areas.
• However, many such populations display unexpected genetic structuring.
• This study investigates a case of limited dispersal in Iberian wolves (Canis lupus).

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze genetic structure and dispersal patterns in Iberian wolves.
• To understand the influence of human-dominated landscapes on large carnivore gene flow.
• To identify conservation units for effective wolf management.

Main Methods:

• Combined genetic data with spatial behavioral information from wolves over two decades.
• Utilized population genetic analyses (FST, admixture) to identify genetic clusters.
• Integrated GPS tracking data of collared wolves to assess dispersal.

Main Results:

• Identified a highly reticulated cryptic population structure with 4 to 11 genetic clusters.
• Observed moderate to high genetic differentiation (FST = 0.09-0.19) and low admixture.
• Documented very low dispersal rates (<4% of wolves) and limited overlap between genetic clusters based on tracking data.

Conclusions:

• Iberian wolf populations exhibit significant genetic structure, contrary to expectations for highly mobile carnivores.
• Recent demographic history and human-dominated landscapes likely contribute to low dispersal.
• Recognizing distinct genetic clusters is crucial for defining conservation units and informing management actions for Iberian wolves.