Dispersive currents explain patterns of population connectivity in an ecologically and economically important fish

How to identify the drivers of population connectivity remains a fundamental question in ecology and evolution. Answering this can be challenging aquatic environments where dynamic lake ocean currents coupled with high levels dispersal gene flow decrease utility modern genetic tools. To address challenge, we used RAD-Seq genotype 959 yellow perch (Perca flavescens), species an ~40-day pelagic larval duration (PLD), collected from 20 sites circumscribing Lake Michigan. We also developed novel, integrative approach that couples detailed biophysical models eco-genetic agent-based generate “predictive” values differentiation. By comparing predictive empirical differentiation, estimated relative contributions for known (e.g., currents, behavior, PLD). For main basin populations (i.e., largest contiguous portion lake), found led low overall differentiation among (FST = 0.003). far best predictors were matrices derived periods time when there strong highly dispersive currents. Thus, these are driving patterns basin. northern southern slightly divergent one another, while those Green Bay 0.11). integrating genome-wide data, illustrate identified systems.