Lousy grouse: Comparing evolutionary patterns in Alaska galliform lice to understand host evolution and host-parasite...

Area of Science:

• * Evolutionary biology
• * Parasitology
• * Genomics

Background:

• * Host-parasite relationships offer insights into host and parasite biology.
• * Phylogenetic comparisons reveal host dispersal, interactions, and population structure.
• * Few studies compare evolutionary histories of multiple parasite groups from the same hosts regionally.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To compare phylogenomic and population genomic patterns of Alaska ptarmigan/grouse and their feather lice (Lagopoecus and Goniodes).
• * To investigate coevolutionary patterns, host switching, and dispersal between hosts and parasites.

Main Methods:

• * Whole-genome sequencing for lice (Lagopoecus and Goniodes) to obtain genes and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
• * Double-digest restriction-associated DNA sequencing for ptarmigan to obtain SNPs.
• * Genomic data analysis for phylogenomic and population genomic comparisons.

Main Results:

• * Both lice genera showed some codivergence with galliform hosts but were primarily characterized by host switching and phylogenetic incongruence.
• * Population structure was uncorrelated between hosts (grouse/ptarmigan) and lice.
• * Grouse and ptarmigan likely share habitats and exhibit dispersal within Alaska.

Conclusions:

• * Grouse and ptarmigan exhibit shared habitats and dispersal patterns.
• * Louse genera Lagopoecus and Goniodes show dissimilar host relationships, indicating factors like dispersal ability shape their coevolution.
• * Host switching and phylogenetic incongruence are key features of these host-parasite systems.