Evaluation of genotyping by sequencing for population genetics of sibling and hybridizing birds: an example using Syrian and Great Spotted Woodpeckers

Abstract

Recent high-throughput genotyping technologies allow for comprehensive genomic analyses on an unprecedented scale. However the advantages of the most commonly used tools are strongly limited in non-model organisms, including wild birds. In this study we attempt to test the utility of genotyping by sequencing (GBS) without relying on the reference genome sequence in selected pairs of sibling bird species that are known to hybridize (Syrian and Great Spotted Woodpeckers). We found that GBS is able to produce a satisfying number of polymorphisms and can be successfully applied to the population genetics of these species. The results also suggest that urban populations of these woodpeckers, especially phenotypic Syrian Woodpeckers, consist of individuals that harbor genotypes assigned to Great Spotted Woodpeckers, which suggests intensive hybridization and introgression.