Using genotyping by sequencing to detect introgressed regions of genomic DNA in two Fundulus species

Species are delimited by barriers to reproduction, which can be caused by genetic incompatibilities that arise when isolated populations become two distinct species. Nevertheless, hybridization can occur when species are genetically similar enough to have few barriers to reproduction. If the hybrid offspring is viable and fertile, it can mate with either of the parental species, resulting in introgression (i.e., the incorporation of genetic material from one parental species into the other). Previous work has reported that two species of killifish, the mummichog and the banded killifish, are able to hybridize in brackish waters and produce viable, fertile offspring. We have recently documented, for the first time, mummichog mtDNA introgression in banded killifish populations in New Brunswick estuaries. This project aims to determine whether introgression is occurring by identifying which parts of the banded killifish genomes contain alleles usually found in the mummichog genome and vice versa using the genotyping by sequencing method. Once genotyping is done, we hope to determine, if present, whether the introgression is adaptative, neutral or harmful using population genetic methods. This will allow us to detect if the hybridization process allows one or both species to better adapt to a rapidly changing coastal environment.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anne-Marie Dion-Côté

Student:

Partner:

Northern Michigan University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Life Sciences (not health); Biotechnology

University:

Université de Moncton

Program: