Unraveling Atlantic Salmon's Genetic Odyssey: Recolonization and Contact Shape North American Diversity

April 19, 2024

Post-glacial recolonization and multiple scales of secondary contact contribute to contemporary Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) genomic variation in North America.

In northern environments, past ice ages isolated species like Atlantic salmon, shaping their genetic diversity.

Using advanced genomic techniques, researchers studied 5455 salmon across North America, from Labrador to Maine. They found three main genetic groups indicating salmon recolonized from two southern refuges after the last ice age.

These groups later interacted in the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence and even across the Atlantic.

Regions with European ancestry suggest additional historical interactions.

This study highlights how genomic tools reveal the complex history of wild salmon populations in North America.

Link to publication
Contributors
Cameron M. Nugent
Tony Kess
Barbara L. Langille
Samantha V. Beck
Steven Duffy
Amber Messmer
Nicole Smith
Sarah J. Lehnert
Brendan F. Wringe
Matthew Kent
Paul Bentzen
Ian R. Bradbury
Share

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates, insights, and highlights from the world of Atlantic salmon conservation delivered directly to your inbox.
Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates, insights, and highlights from the world of Atlantic salmon conservation delivered directly to your inbox.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.