Population genetic structure and long‐distance dispersal among seabird populations: Implications for colony persistence

Leach's storm-petrel populations in the Atlantic and Pacific exhibit distinct genetic structures, with no significant differentiation among Atlantic colonies, suggesting either contemporary gene flow or historical association. However, evidence of interocean exchange was found, highlighting the importance of long-distance dispersal for colony persistence. The study used mitochondrial DNA sequencing and nuclear microsatellite genotyping to analyze 357 base pairs in 103 individuals and 18 loci in 245 individuals, respectively. These findings underscore the need for oceanic-scale management strategies to conserve this seabird species effectively, particularly in regions like St Kilda, Scotland, where localized predation pressures threaten colony survival.

BICKNELL, A. W. J., KNIGHT, M. E., BILTON, D., REID, J. B., BURKE, T., & VOTIER, S. C. (2012). Population genetic structure and long‐distance dispersal among seabird populations: Implications for colony persistence. Molecular Ecology, 21(12), 2863–2876. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-294x.2012.05558.x