Menelon, Laurelie

Hybridization contributes to the genetic diversity and can impact speciation. This study investigates the genetic evidence of recent hybridization under climate change in sympatric populations of northern and southern flying squirrels in Ontario. Using low-coverage whole-genome sequences, my research examines the existing population structure and measures the genomic variation of the Glaucomys species. The global estimates of FST (0.308) and DXY (0.141) are indicative of substantial differentiation between the species. Measures of genetic diversity (π), differentiation (FST), and divergence (DXY) across the genome reveal insights into the divergent selection driving speciation. Results indicate an absence of contemporary hybridization or introgression at a site with longstanding sympatry. Across both species' genomes, signatures of selection align with four different scenarios for the formation of genomic landscapes of differentiation, shedding light on the complex speciation history of these flying squirrels. These findings enhance understanding of evolutionary dynamics, adaptation, speciation, and genetic differentiation.

Author Keywords: Genomic differentiation, Glaucomys, northern flying squirrel, southern flying squirrel, speciation