Local adaptation in the wedge-tailed shearwater (Puffinus pacificus)

Research on the wedge-tailed shearwater (Puffinus pacificus) reveals significant local adaptation driven by oceanographic conditions, challenging traditional speciation models reliant on physical barriers. The study found that seabirds breeding in distinct colonies exhibit divergent foraging behaviors and chick developmental patterns, with Heron Island birds adopting a 'dual-foraging' strategy due to less productive environments, while Lord Howe Island birds show faster growth despite lower meal mass per night. Morphological analyses highlighted sex-specific differences and disassortative mate choice based on bill width, suggesting selection rather than plasticity. Genetic markers indicated restricted gene flow, contrasting with historical connections, implying that environmental factors play a pivotal role in seabird diversity. This study underscores the importance of considering colonies independently for conservation and highlights the need to explore selection mechanisms further.

Peck, D. R. (2006). Local adaptation in the wedge-tailed shearwater (Puffinus pacificus) [James Cook University]. https://doi.org/10.25903/JDG8-WV69