Date of Award
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biology
Department
Biology
First Advisor
Metcalf, Anthony
Second Advisor
Fehn, Richard
Third Advisor
Ferrari, James
Abstract
Uses mitochondrial DNA sequence data to examine the degree of genetic differentiation among sky island populations of two subspecies of pygmy nuthatch (Sitta pygmaea melanotis and Sitta pygmaea leuconucha) occurring in Southern California. Assesses the hypothesis that sky islands are genetically isolated and that migration (gene flow) is restricted among them. Eleven sampling locations throughout Southern California were selected based on representation of subspecies, availability of specimens, and feasibility of collection. Results indicate that pygmy nuthatch populations fragmented in the disjunct mountain ranges of Southern California exhibit low but significant levels of genetic differentiation.
Recommended Citation
Benson, Thomas Alan, "Population genetics and phylogeography of the pygmy nuthatch in Southern California" (2006). Theses Digitization Project. 2973.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2973
