Abstract
Molecular analysis of the present genetic structure of Rock Shags indicates significant population subdivision probably caused by vicariant disjunction associated with the Llanquihue Glaciation (35,000-15,000 ybp). The formerly continuous population was forced into refugia on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, where they remained without contact for approximately 20,000 years. With amelioration of the climate and consequent glacial retreat, populations recolonized rocky shorelines in the central portion of the present day range and introgressed considerably. The Chubut and Falkland populations serve as genetic sources for the others, whereas the Fuegian population acts as a genetic sink. The population that is resident on Isla Chiloe is enigmatic and in nonequilibrium, possibly the result of indirect effects by a yet unsampled population.
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