Hybridisation and genomic diversity in British and Irish pigeons Columba livia

Abstract

Human introductions of animals and plants have caused a diverse array of conservation problems, including extinction by hybridisation. This results from interbreeding of non-native and native populations, causing genomic homogenisation. A potential benefit of anthropogenic hybridisation concerns the influx of genetic variation. The Rock Dove Columba livia has been genetically replaced across much of its range by the feral pigeon. Relict populations in the British Isles have experienced varying levels of wild-feral gene flow. Introgression correlates with higher genomic diversity, potentially improving chances of persistence of relict Rock Dove populations. However, the beneficial impacts of interbreeding may be short-lived if hybridisation levels increase.