Assessing Connectivity among Coastal and Interior Cactus Wrens in California using Population Genomics (2021)
Dates
Publication Date
2023-12-04
Start Date
2021-04-07
End Date
2021-06-02
Citation
Kus, B.E., Mendia, S.M., and Vandergast, A.G., 2023, Assessing connectivity among coastal and interior Cactus Wrens in California using population genomics (2021): U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P9UDW3VL.
Summary
The Coastal Cactus Wren is a species of high conservation concern in southern California. The goal of this project was to obtain taxonomic resolution of subspecies boundaries between coastal and desert populations of Cactus Wrens. We collected genetic samples from Cactus Wrens at California desert sites and combined this dataset with previously collected samples from coastal populations to resolve the distribution of subspecies and to determine distinct genetic lineages, gene flow, genetic diversity and effective population size of desert populations. Understanding these relationships will assist managers with development and implementation of a conservation and management strategy that could aim to avoid state or federal listing of [...]
Summary
The Coastal Cactus Wren is a species of high conservation concern in southern California. The goal of this project was to obtain taxonomic resolution of subspecies boundaries between coastal and desert populations of Cactus Wrens. We collected genetic samples from Cactus Wrens at California desert sites and combined this dataset with previously collected samples from coastal populations to resolve the distribution of subspecies and to determine distinct genetic lineages, gene flow, genetic diversity and effective population size of desert populations. Understanding these relationships will assist managers with development and implementation of a conservation and management strategy that could aim to avoid state or federal listing of this declining species.
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Purpose
The goal of this study was to use genomic markers to identify range boundaries between coastal and desert populations of Cactus Wrens. The results are critical for determining whether subspecies ranges require revision and for developing habitat and genetic management strategies for the Coastal Cactus Wren. Our results provide a scientific basis for implementing management to maintain connectivity among Cactus Wren populations through land acquisition, protection, restoration, and transplantation, and add to a growing list of species, including Bell’s Vireo (Vireo bellii), California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica), and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) for which genetic study is being used to guide conservation decisions.
