Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, Structural Variants, and Short Tandem Repeats Capture Distinct Signals of Adaptive...

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Evolutionary Biology
• Conservation Genetics

Background:

• The Arctic is a dynamic environment for fauna adaptation, but increasing anthropogenic warming poses extinction risks.
• Understanding local adaptation is crucial for Arctic species, such as the Atlantic puffin, which has distinct populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate adaptive genetic divergence between High Arctic (F. a. naumanni) and boreal (F. a. arctica) puffin subspecies.
• To analyze different types of DNA variation (SNPs, SVs, STRs) for insights into adaptation.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing of Atlantic puffin subspecies.
• Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), structural variants (SVs), and short tandem repeats (STRs).
• Identification of genomic outlier loci and genes associated with phenotypic differences.

Main Results:

• Short tandem repeats (STRs) revealed the largest unique proportion (47.2%) of genomic outlier loci.
• Most outlier genes (94.5%) were exclusive to a single variation type, with several linked to observed phenotypic differences (e.g., body size, sensory systems).
• The High Arctic subspecies (F. a. naumanni) possesses unique genetic diversity, suggesting adaptation to Arctic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Distinct genetic markers (SNPs, SVs, STRs) capture unique signals of adaptive divergence.
• Integrating multiple genomic markers is essential for a comprehensive understanding of local adaptation.
• Findings provide insights into Arctic fauna adaptation and inform conservation strategies for the Atlantic puffin.