Population genomics and phylogeography of four Australasian waterfowl

Biogeographic barriers can restrict gene flow, but variation in ecological drivers of dispersal influences the effectiveness these among different species. Detailed information about genetic connectivity and movement waterfowl across biogeographic northern Australia Papua New Guinea is limited. We compared for four species Australasian that vary their capacity predisposition dispersal: Radjah Shelduck (Radjah radjah), Wandering Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna arcuata), Green Pygmy Goose (Nettapus pulchellus), Pacific Black (Anas superciliosa). obtained >3,700 loci from double-digest restriction-associated DNA sequencing 15 to 40 individuals per found idiosyncratic patterns population structure The mostly sedentary exhibited clear differences between as well locations within Australia. Although was consistent with isolation by distance, Torres Strait Carpentaria Barrier contributed more than geographic distance alone. In contrast, presumed did not show obvious structure. Likewise, populations dispersive were unstructured genetically indistinguishable southern Our data suggest some Australo-Papuan biogeographical are insufficient impede flow capable dispersing great distances. like Shelduck, barriers, perhaps coupled its ecology natural history, flow. findings bring new insight into waterfowl.