Genetic Structure of Hawaiian Honeycreepers and Avian Malaria
Author Information
Author(s): Lori S. Eggert, Lauren A. Terwilliger, Bethany L. Woodworth, Patrick J. Hart, Danielle Palmer, Robert C. Fleischer
Primary Institution: Smithsonian Institution
Hypothesis
How can we explain the presence of large breeding populations of amakihi in low elevation habitats today?
Conclusion
Amakihi populations in low elevation habitats have rebounded and become common in regions where they were previously rare or absent due to strong selection for pathogen resistance.
Supporting Evidence
- Amakihi populations were found to be genetically distinct and spatially structured according to altitude.
- Very few apapane and no iiwi were detected in low-elevation habitats.
- Genetic results revealed minimal differentiation between populations at different altitudes for apapane and iiwi.
Takeaway
The study found that Hawaiian honeycreepers, especially amakihi, have adapted to survive in low elevation areas despite past declines due to avian malaria.
Methodology
The study used twelve polymorphic microsatellite loci to investigate genetic structure and responses to avian malaria along an elevational gradient.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to limited sampling in low elevation habitats.
Limitations
Sample sizes for some populations, particularly apapane at low elevation, were small.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on three species of Hawaiian honeycreepers: amakihi, apapane, and iiwi.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website