Idaho ground squirrels (Urocitellus spp.)
Idaho ground squirrels were previously considered the same species, but
are now separated in two endangered species: the northern and southern
Idaho ground squirrel (Urocitellus brunneus and U. endemicus, respectively). These two species differ both morphological and ecologically, and are also genetically distinct.
I have been focusing on evaluating the level of genetic diversity and divergence, as well as population structure both inter- and intraspecifically, at both the neutral and adaptive genomic level, in the context of environmental adaptation. Using RADseq data, our work has shown that these two species are clearly distinct at the genomic level, and part of those differences are also associated with adaptation of torpor timing to local environmental conditions. This is also clear at the intraspecific level for NIDGS, which inhabits a more heterogeneous landscape in terms of elevation. Despite experiencing a more homogeneous landscape, and potentially with higher connectivity, SIDGS seems to be less genetically diverse and at greater conservation risk. We are now developing a SNP panel using GT-seq to genotype low quality samples (particularly for NIDGS), including neutral and putative adaptive SNPs, as part of Molly Garrett's PhD work. |