Variation in genetic diversity of tree sparrow (Passer montanus) population in long-term environmental heavy metal polluted areas

Abstract Genetic diversity is the bedrock of evolution. The “Genetic Erosion” hypothesis posits that environmental pollution could cause reduced genetic diversity. To explore the effects of heavy metal pollution on genetic diversity in natural populations, we selected an area with more than sixty years of heavy metal contamination (Baiyin, BY) and a relatively unpolluted one (Liujiaxia, LJX), and tree sparrow (Passer montanus) as study models. Five tree sparrow populations were sampled in BY at sites differing in heavy metal pollution level. Lower genetic diversity based on seven microsatellite loci was observed in the five tree sparrow populations from BY compared with those from LJX. Analysis of molecular variance indicated no significant genetic differentiation between BY and LJX. However, the observed heterozygosity and allelic richness were negatively correlated to the lead and cadmium concentrations in the primary feathers of tree sparrow. Our results indicated the genetic diversity might have a negative response to long-term environmental heavy metal pollution in tree sparrow, supporting the “Genetic Erosion” hypothesis. Therefore, the findings shed lights on the possible effects of heavy metal pollution on genetic diversity of wild bird populations.