Genomic evaluation of hybridization in historic and modern North American Bison (Bison bison)

A comprehensive genomic analysis reveals that nearly all modern North American bison, including those from herds previously believed to be free of hybridization, exhibit signs of recent introgression with domestic cattle. Using whole genome sequencing on 25 bison samples—representing both historic and contemporary populations—the study identified extensive genetic recombination between bison and cattle over the past 200 years. The research employed advanced genomic techniques, including a novel method for detecting cattle haplotypes, to demonstrate that cattle introgression is pervasive across major bison lineages. These findings challenge prior assumptions about hybridization in conservation herds and underscore the necessity of genome-wide assessments to accurately quantify genetic admixture, with significant implications for bison conservation efforts.

Stroupe, S., Forgacs, D., Harris, A., Derr, J. N., & Davis, B. W. (2022). Genomic evaluation of hybridization in historic and modern North American Bison (Bison bison). Scientific Reports, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-09828-z