Asymmetric gene flow mitigates climate change risks in an endemic bird of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau

Understanding how species maintain adaptive potential under climate change is central in evolutionary biology. Here we demonstrate that multi-population asymmetric gene flow enhances the genetic diversity and mitigates climate change risks in an alpine endemic bird of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). By combining a chromosome-level reference genome of the ground tit (<i>Pseudopodoces humilis</i>) with whole-genome resequencing data from 81 individuals across 20 sites, we integrated population genomics, landscape genomics, and species distribution models (SDMs). Our results reveal a central convergence–peripheral isolation genetic pattern: central populations show the highest genetic diversity and extensive admixture, while three peripheral populations remain highly isolated. Asymmetric gene flow from peripheral to central populations forms a genetic hub in the central QTP. Genetic offset models further indicate that populations in the central region are less vulnerable to climate change than those in the eastern and southeastern regions. Both genetic offset models and SDMs identify annual precipitation (BIO12) as the most important environmental variable driving climate adaptation. Finally, SDMs predict suitable niche gain in the central QTP, reinforcing the idea that this region may act as a climate refuge. Overall, our findings enhance our understanding of the evolutionary dynamics and climate responses of alpine species, providing valuable guidance for conservation and management strategies under ongoing global change.