Neosho Madtom ddRAD

This study aimed to identify boundaries, connectivity, viability, and adaptation of Neosho Madtom populations via genetic characteristics surveyed across the Neosho River system.ObjectivesWe addressed six objectives to inform conservation planning:1. We conducted comprehensive spatial sampling by collecting Neosho Madtom tissues (N=192) from localities (N=14) throughout the Neosho River system (Neosho, Cotttonwood, and Spring rivers).2. We quantified genetic diversity within and among populations by genotyping thousands of genetic markers (loci; N=2,725) for each sample.3. We determined distinct genetic population boundaries, quantified population connectivity (gene flow), and delineated potential management units by determining spatial genetic structure.4. We identified environmental features that affect Neosho Madtom dispersal by correlating spatial genetic divergence with riverscape characteristics between sampling locations.5. We determined demographic status, population viability, and trends by deriving standard population genetic parameters (e.g., effective population size, Ne).6. We tested for local adaptation by identifying loci under selection along environmental gradients and provided validation of these candidate markers by elucidating the biological processes with which they are associated.