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Haplotype Networks
A haplotype network is a graphical representation that illustrates the relationships between different haplotypes—a group of closely linked genetic markers inherited together—within a population or species. It provides insights into the evolutionary history and genetic diversity of these groups. In phylogeography, haplotype networks are valuable because they help researchers trace patterns of genetic variation across geographic regions, offering clues about the historical processes that have shaped the distribution of species.
Figure 28. This figure shows the sequences of multiple individuals in a population, highlighting how single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) define different haplotypes. Each row represents an individual sequence, with variations at specific positions indicated. The SNPs shown are C/T, A/C, and G/A, which distinguish the haplotypes. For example, the first and fourth sequences share the same haplotype, defined by the SNPs C at position 1, A at position 2, and G at position 3, while the second and third sequences represent a different haplotype with T, C, and A at the same positions. Mouse vector illustration by Gwilz (CC BY-SA 4.0)Figure 29. . Haplotype network of the blue mussel, Mytilus edulis, showing the distribution of genetic variation across the New England Coast. Each color represents a different population while each circle represents a specific haplotype. Lines represent a single mutational step, numbers above lines represent additional mutational steps and dashed lines represent mutation steps that exceed 60. SPC (Stonington Point, Connecticut), PMA (Plymouth, Massachusetts), MEC (Maine), PRI (Point Judith, Rhode Island), GGM (Maine – Site 2), SMA (Sandwich, Massachusetts). (Network constructed by Wheaton College Biology majors Megan Kelleher & Madison Faulkingham: Genetic connectivity of Mytilus edulis from the New England coast – Spring 2024 BIO 317L, Wheaton College.)
