Data from: Reduced representation sequencing reveals weak genetic differentiation between Canadian and European Larus hyperboreus (Glaucous Gull)

Climate change poses a significant threat to Arctic ecosystems. Evaluation
of genetic diversity within and differentiation among populations is
needed to effectively conserve Arctic species and ensure genetic variation
is appropriately managed. This research examined population genetic
structure in Larus hyperboreus (Glaucous Gull), a circumpolar Arctic
species that is declining in parts of its range. Population genetic
information is needed to help delineate management units, including
information on genetic differences among related species, among subspecies
(currently distinguished by subtle morphometric and plumage differences),
and among colonies in North America. We conducted double-digest
restriction site-associated DNA sequencing for 62 L. hyperboreus, 18 L.
argentatus smithsonianus (American Herring Gull), 6 L. a. argentatus
(European Herring Gull), and 15 L. glaucescens (Glaucous-winged Gull)
sampled across the Canadian and European Arctic. Interspecific analyses
using 2,145 loci were unable to distinguish members of this species
complex. Despite the geographic distance among sampling locations,
molecular assignments and principal coordinates analyses based on 621 loci
uncovered only weak population genetic differentiation among sampled
European and Canadian colonies of L. hyperboreus. As L. hyperboreus
occupying the eastern Canadian Arctic appear to be acting as a single
panmictic population, conservation plans that protect Arctic habitat may
help slow or reverse population declines. Proactive conservation
strategies will benefit both L. hyperboreus and associated coastal Arctic
ecosystems.