Male Gene Flow in Wild Chimpanzees and Bonobos
Author Information
Author(s): Schubert Grit, Stoneking Colin J., Arandjelovic Mimi, Boesch Christophe, Eckhardt Nadin, Hohmann Gottfried, Langergraber Kevin, Lukas Dieter, Vigilant Linda
Primary Institution: Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology
Hypothesis
Can male-mediated gene flow occur in patrilocal primates like chimpanzees and bonobos despite strong sex biases in dispersal?
Conclusion
The study suggests that male-mediated gene flow occurs in western chimpanzees and bonobos, indicating more variable dispersal patterns than previously thought.
Supporting Evidence
- Low genetic differentiation was found among groups for both males and females.
- The presence of multiple and highly divergent Y-haplotypes suggests male-mediated gene flow.
- Simulations indicated that observed genetic variation is unlikely to arise solely from mutation.
Takeaway
This study found that male chimpanzees and bonobos can sometimes have babies with females from other groups, which helps mix their genes.
Methodology
The study used autosomal microsatellite genotyping of fecal samples from multiple groups of wild western chimpanzees and bonobos.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the limited number of social groups sampled, particularly for bonobos.
Limitations
The study's estimates of gene flow are based on a small number of observations and may have a large degree of uncertainty.
Participant Demographics
The study involved wild populations of western chimpanzees and bonobos from specific national parks in Côte d'Ivoire and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
(0.004–0.050)
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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