Is it ancient or modern history that we can read in the genes?

Abstract

Abstract The impact of gene flow on the population structure of a species depends markedly on its population dynamics, and can also vary strikingly from locus to locus within the same individuals. The renaissance of the genealogical approach to population genetics has provided a series of simple and useful tools that enable us to use the distribution of allele frequencies to draw inferences about a species’ history and demography. In particular, comparisons between loci with different rates and types of mutation will be valuable in conservation planning. Conversely, they can provide insight into strategies for maintaining genetic variation. Some of the familiar results of population genetics follow from very simple rules of genealogy construction. Besides providing a fresh perspective on these well-known results, the approach can be extended to new problems. In particular, we will address the interactions between gene flow and colonisation and growth. These interactions are important when individuals (or gametes) disperse into sparsely populated areas and especially during the colonisation of virgin territory.