Dataset Information

Population genomics reveal rapid genetic differentiation in a recently invasive population of Rattus norvegicus.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Invasive species bring a serious effect on local biodiversity, ecosystems, and even human health and safety. Although the genetic signatures of historical range expansions have been explored in an array of species, the genetic consequences of contemporary range expansions have received little attention, especially in mammal species. In this study, we used whole-genome sequencing to explore the rapid genetic change and introduction history of a newly invasive brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) population which invaded Xinjiang Province, China in the late 1970s.

Results

Bayesian clustering analysis, principal components analysis, and phylogenetic analysis all showed clear genetic differentiation between newly introduced and native rat populations. Reduced genetic diversity and high linkage disequilibrium suggested a severe population bottleneck in this colonization event. Results of TreeMix analyses revealed that the introduced rats were derived from an adjacent population in geographic region (Northwest China). Demographic analysis indicated that a severe bottleneck occurred in XJ population after the split off from the source population, and the divergence of XJ population might have started before the invasion of XJ. Moreover, we detected 42 protein-coding genes with allele frequency shifts throughout the genome for XJ rats and they were mainly associated with lipid metabolism and immunity, which could be seen as a prelude to future selection analyses in the novel environment of XJ.

Conclusions

This study presents the first genomic evidence on genetic differentiation which developed rapidly, and deepens the understanding of invasion history and evolutionary processes of this newly introduced rat population. This would add to our understanding of how invasive species become established and aid strategies aimed at the management of this notorious pest that have spread around the world with humans.

SUBMITTER: Chen Y

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7836188 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Publications

Population genomics reveal rapid genetic differentiation in a recently invasive population of Rattus norvegicus.

Chen Yi Y Zhao Lei L Teng Huajing H Shi Chengmin C Liu Quansheng Q Zhang Jianxu J Zhang Yaohua Y

Frontiers in zoology 20210126 1

<h4>Background</h4>Invasive species bring a serious effect on local biodiversity, ecosystems, and even human health and safety. Although the genetic signatures of historical range expansions have been explored in an array of species, the genetic consequences of contemporary range expansions have received little attention, especially in mammal species. In this study, we used whole-genome sequencing to explore the rapid genetic change and introduction history of a newly invasive brown rat (Rattus ...[more]

PMID: 33499890

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Project description:Brown rats are one of the most widespread urban species worldwide. Despite the nuisances they induce and their potential role as a zoonotic reservoir, knowledge on urban rat populations remains scarce. The main purpose of this study was to characterize an urban brown rat population from Chanteraines park (Hauts-de-Seine, France), with regards to haematology, population genetics, immunogenic diversity, resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides, and community of parasites. Haematological parameters were measured. Population genetics was investigated using 13 unlinked microsatellite loci. Immunogenic diversity was assessed for Mhc-Drb. Frequency of the Y139F mutation (conferring resistance to rodenticides) and two linked microsatellites were studied, concurrently with the presence of anticoagulant residues in the liver. Combination of microscopy and molecular methods were used to investigate the occurrence of 25 parasites. Statistical approaches were used to explore multiple parasite relationships and model parasite occurrence. Eighty-six rats were caught. The first haematological data for a wild urban R. norvegicus population was reported. Genetic results suggested high genetic diversity and connectivity between Chanteraines rats and surrounding population(s). We found a high prevalence (55.8%) of the mutation Y139F and presence of rodenticide residues in 47.7% of the sampled individuals. The parasite species richness was high (16). Seven potential zoonotic pathogens were identified, together with a surprisingly high diversity of Leptospira species (4). Chanteraines rat population is not closed, allowing gene flow and making eradication programs challenging, particularly because rodenticide resistance is highly prevalent. Parasitological results showed that co-infection is more a rule than an exception. Furthermore, the presence of several potential zoonotic pathogens, of which four Leptospira species, in this urban rat population raised its role in the maintenance and spread of these pathogens. Our findings should stimulate future discussions about the development of a long-term rat-control management program in Chanteraines urban park.

Dataset Information

Population genomics reveal rapid genetic differentiation in a recently invasive population of Rattus norvegicus.

Background

Results

Conclusions

Publications

Population genomics reveal rapid genetic differentiation in a recently invasive population of Rattus norvegicus.

Similar Datasets

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