Genecan

Genecan is a software tool designed for the analysis of genetic data, particularly in the context of population genetics and evolutionary biology. Developed by the University of Otago in New Zealand, it is widely used for estimating gene flow, migration rates, and genetic structure among populations. The program employs Bayesian statistical methods to infer historical and contemporary migration patterns based on genetic markers such as microsatellites or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Genecan operates by simulating genetic data under various migration models and comparing these simulations to observed data using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) techniques. This allows researchers to estimate parameters such as migration rates (m), effective population sizes, and the time since population divergence. The software is particularly useful for studying species with complex demographic histories, including those with recent bottlenecks or secondary contact events.

The tool is available as a standalone application and includes a graphical user interface for ease of use. It supports multiple input file formats, including those generated by other genetic analysis programs like STRUCTURE or Arlequin. Genecan has been applied in diverse fields, including conservation genetics, phylogeography, and evolutionary ecology, to address questions about species distribution, adaptation, and speciation.

While Genecan is a powerful tool, its effectiveness depends on appropriate model specification and sufficient genetic data. Users must carefully consider assumptions, such as constant population sizes and equilibrium migration rates, to ensure accurate inferences. The software is regularly updated to improve functionality and address limitations, making it a valuable resource for geneticists and evolutionary biologists.