Wood Ant Hybridization Genetic Data from Southern Finland

647 worker ant samples from 16 localities in Finland were analyzed using microsatellite markers and a 1200 bp mitochondrial sequence. The data reveals 69 hybrid nests of varying degrees alongside 27 parental-like nests, showing systematic cytonuclear mismatches. It was collected by Jack Beresford to study hybridization between Formica aquilonia and F. polyctena.

Use Cases

• Analyze microsatellite marker patterns across 16 localities to identify hybrid nests and parental-like gene pools.
• Investigate cytonuclear mismatch by correlating mitochondrial haplotypes with nuclear marker profiles from 647 samples.
• Examine sex-specific genetic differences in hybrid localities for signals of antagonistic selection.
• Study the distribution of mitochondrial haplotypes from F. aquilonia and F. polyctena among hybrid nests.

Strengths

• Data includes 647 worker ant samples, providing a substantial sample size for genetic analysis.
• Genetic analysis combines microsatellite markers and a 1200 bp mitochondrial sequence for multi-locus insights.
• Samples are from 16 distinct localities in Finland, offering geographic context for hybridization patterns.
• The dataset identifies 69 hybrid nests and 27 parental-like nests, quantifying the prevalence of hybridization.

Limitations

• The dataset is limited to 16 localities in Finland, which may not represent the full geographic range of these ant species.
• Data consists solely of worker ant samples; genetic data from reproductive males and females is not included.
• The genetic markers used (microsatellites, mitochondrial sequence) provide limited genomic coverage compared to whole-genome sequencing.

Provenance

Source

Dryad digital repository.

Collection Method

Genetic analysis of 647 worker ant samples using microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequencing.

Freshness

Last updated 2020-06-24.

Geography

16 localities in Finland.