Reduced MHC and Neutral Variation in the Galápagos Hawk
Author Information
Author(s): Bollmer Jennifer L, Hull Joshua M, Ernest Holly B, Sarasola José H, Parker Patricia G
Primary Institution: University of Missouri-St. Louis
Hypothesis
Variability would be lower in the Galápagos hawk due to a genetic bottleneck at foundation followed by ongoing genetic drift in these small populations.
Conclusion
The Galápagos hawk has low MHC variability compared to the Swainson's hawk, likely due to a founder event and genetic drift.
Supporting Evidence
- Galápagos hawks had only three different MHC sequences from 32 individuals.
- Swainson's hawks had 20 unique sequences from 20 individuals.
- Neutral genetic diversity was reduced in Galápagos hawks compared to Swainson's hawks.
Takeaway
The Galápagos hawk has fewer different genes for fighting diseases than its mainland cousin, which could make it more vulnerable to new illnesses.
Methodology
The study involved genotyping Galápagos hawks at MHC class II B genes and comparing them to Swainson's hawks using microsatellite loci.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to limited geographic sampling of Galápagos hawks.
Limitations
The sample size for Swainson's hawks was small and may not represent the full variability of the species.
Participant Demographics
Galápagos hawks were sampled from eight islands in the Galápagos Archipelago.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 51,000 - 254,000
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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