Fragmented habitat compensates for the effect of genetic bottleneck. Fragmented habitat compensates for the adverse effects of genetic bottleneck

According to the population genetics theory, population subdivision helps organisms retain genetic diversity, crucial for adaptation in a changing environment. Habitat shape is thought to be important for generating and maintaining population subdivision, but empirical cases are needed to test this assumption. Saimaa ringed seals, land-locked in a labyrinthine lake and recovering from a drastic bottleneck, show much reduced genetic variation.