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Kleemann S, Sandow D, Stevens M, Schultz DJ, Taggart DA, Croxford A. Non-invasive monitoring and reintroduction biology of the brush-tailed rock-wallaby (. AUST J ZOOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/zo21009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Thirty-nine endangered brush-tailed rock-wallabies (Petrogale penicillata) were reintroduced to Grampians National Park, western Victoria, between 2008 and 2012. Subsequent high mortality, low breeding, and no recruitment were linked to fox predation and physical disturbance during monitoring. From 2014 to 2017, the colony was left undisturbed and monitored only by remote camera. Five adult animals were identified across this period (1 ♂ and 3 ♀s – all tagged; and one untagged female), and an average of 0.7 pouch young were birthed per tagged female per year. In 2019, camera-monitoring and non-invasive genetic monitoring (faecal) were used to identify colony members, genetic diversity, and breeding. Camera monitoring in 2019 identified the same five individuals, whereas genetic monitoring using 12 microsatellites identified eight individuals (two male and six female genotypes). Genetic diversity within the colony was moderate (expected heterozygosity (He) = 0.655, observed heterozygosity (Ho) = 0.854). Leaving the colony undisturbed after 2013 correlated with improved adult survival, increased breeding, and successful recruitment of young to the population. Recommendations for the Grampians colony include continuation of regular camera- and scat monitoring to improve our understanding of the reintroduction biology of P. penicillata and other marsupials in open, unfenced landscapes.
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Potter S, Neaves LE, Lethbridge M, Eldridge MDB. Understanding Historical Demographic Processes to Inform Contemporary Conservation of an Arid zone Specialist: The Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallaby. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E154. [PMID: 32023869 PMCID: PMC7073556 DOI: 10.3390/genes11020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Little genetic research has been undertaken on mammals across the vast expanse of the arid biome in Australia, despite continuing species decline and need for conservation management. Here, we evaluate the contemporary and historical genetic connectivity of the yellow-footed rock-wallaby, Petrogalexanthopusxanthopus, a threatened macropodid which inhabits rocky outcrops across the disconnected mountain range systems of the southern arid biome. We use 17 microsatellite loci together with mitochondrial control region data to determine the genetic diversity of populations and the evolutionary processes shaping contemporary population dynamics on which to base conservation recommendations. Our results indicate the highly fragmented populations have reduced diversity and limited contemporary gene flow, with most populations having been through population bottlenecks. Despite limited contemporary gene flow, the phylogeographic relationships of the mitochondrial control region indicate a lack of structure and suggests greater historical connectivity. This is an emerging outcome for mammals across this arid region. On the basis of our results, we recommend augmentation of populations of P. x.xanthopus, mixing populations from disjunct mountain range systems to reduce the chance of continued diversity loss and inbreeding depression, and therefore maximize the potential for populations to adapt and survive into the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Potter
- Division of Ecology and Evolution, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney 2010, New South Wales, Australia (M.D.B.E.)
| | - Linda E. Neaves
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney 2010, New South Wales, Australia (M.D.B.E.)
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5 LR, UK
| | - Mark Lethbridge
- Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide 5001, Australia;
| | - Mark D. B. Eldridge
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney 2010, New South Wales, Australia (M.D.B.E.)
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Eldridge MDB, Pearson DJ, Potter S. Identification of a novel hybrid zone within the black-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale lateralis) in Western Australia. AUST J ZOOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/zo20052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
It is increasingly recognised that intertaxon hybridisation is more common in vertebrates than previously thought. However, recent hybridisation has rarely been reported from wild marsupials, with only three instances of first generation (F1) hybrids reported, all in macropodids. In the 1990s a chromosomally anomalous population of black-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale lateralis) was identified in the Townsend Ridges in central eastern Western Australia. Individuals from this population had chromosomes characteristic of two P. lateralis subspecies (P. l. centralis and P. l. kimberleyensis). This unusual mixture is suggestive of a novel hybrid zone between subspecies, but it could also represent a P. l. centralis population in which a 9–10 chromosome fusion has independently arisen. To test between these hypotheses, we compared mitochondrial DNA Control Region (CR) sequence data from Townsend Ridges individuals to published data for all P. lateralis subspecies. Two divergent lineages of CR haplotypes were identified at Townsend Ridges, suggesting that it represents a novel rock-wallaby hybrid zone, the third reported in the genus. While one CR haplotype clustered with those typical of P. l. centralis, the other Townsend Ridges haplotypes clustered with those from three different P. lateralis subspecies but not with P. l. kimberleyensis. Additional studies with multiple nuclear genes will be necessary to fully understand the nature of this novel hybrid zone.
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Dispersal, philopatry and population genetic structure of the mainland dibbler, Parantechinus apicalis. CONSERV GENET 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-019-01196-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Mutton TY, Fuller SJ, Tucker D, Baker AM. Discovered and disappearing? Conservation genetics of a recently named Australian carnivorous marsupial. Ecol Evol 2018; 8:9413-9425. [PMID: 30377511 PMCID: PMC6194214 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Five new species within the Australian carnivorous marsupial genus Antechinus have recently been named, at least two of which are threatened. Important facets of the habitat use and extinction risk of one of these new species, the buff-footed antechinus, A. mysticus, are not well understood. Previous research has suggested that the species utilizes a broad range of inter-connected forest habitats in southeast Queensland (Qld), Australia. Based on this potentially connected habitat, we predicted that A. mysticus should have low population genetic structure, particularly in relation to its congener, the spatially restricted, high altitude, closed-forest A. subtropicus. We genotyped nine microsatellite loci for six populations of A. mysticus, sampled throughout their known range in eastern Australia, and compared them with four proximate populations of A. subtropicus. Surprisingly, genetic structuring among southeast Qld populations of A. mysticus was moderate to high and similar to that between A. subtropicus populations. We postulate that all A. mysticus populations have declined recently (<100 generations), particularly the northernmost southeast Qld population, which may be at risk of extinction. Our results suggest that A. mysticus is limited to a more scattered and fragmented distribution than previously thought and may be in decline. The identification of population decline in this study and recently in other Antechinus suggests the extinction risk of many Australian mammals should be reassessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Y. Mutton
- School of Earth, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Science and Engineering FacultyQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Susan J. Fuller
- School of Earth, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Science and Engineering FacultyQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - David Tucker
- School of Earth, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Science and Engineering FacultyQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Andrew M. Baker
- School of Earth, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Science and Engineering FacultyQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQLDAustralia
- Natural Environments ProgramSouth BrisbaneQLDAustralia
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Piggott MP, Hansen B, Soderquist T, Eldridge MDB, Taylor AC. Population monitoring of small and declining brush-tailed rock wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) colonies at the extreme of their range using faecal DNA sampling. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/am16056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Obtaining much-needed information on population parameters such as abundance and genetic diversity can be difficult for small and declining populations. The brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) is an endangered and cryptic species with many colonies in decline. The Warrumbungle National Park (NP) in New South Wales contains a declining metapopulation of P. penicillata at the western (inland) extreme of the species’ current range. Loss of these colonies would cause substantial range contraction and probable loss of regional genetic diversity in the Central Evolutionary Significance Unit (ESU). We used non-invasive genetic methods to identify individuals from faecal DNA from five colonies in the Warrumbungle NP. We identified a minimum of 21 individuals, with the largest colony containing seven individuals. The Warrumbungle NP colonies showed significant intercolony structuring and we were able to detect a single dispersal event. Comparison of genetic diversity to other Central ESU colonies shows that loss of the Warrumbungle NP population will result in loss of unique diversity from this region. The minimum number of animals and genetic diversity information obtained in this study was used to support management actions of herbivore control and translocation in the Warrumbungle NP population.
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Looking back to go forward: genetics informs future management of captive and reintroduced populations of the black-footed rock-wallaby Petrogale lateralis. CONSERV GENET 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-017-1030-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Brüniche-Olsen A, Hazlitt SL, Eldridge MDB. Genetic evidence of range-wide population declines in an Australian marsupial prior to European settlement. CONSERV GENET 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-017-0960-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Potter S, Bragg JG, Blom MPK, Deakin JE, Kirkpatrick M, Eldridge MDB, Moritz C. Chromosomal Speciation in the Genomics Era: Disentangling Phylogenetic Evolution of Rock-wallabies. Front Genet 2017; 8:10. [PMID: 28265284 PMCID: PMC5301020 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2017.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of chromosome rearrangements (CRs) with speciation is well established, and there is a long history of theory and evidence relating to "chromosomal speciation." Genomic sequencing has the potential to provide new insights into how reorganization of genome structure promotes divergence, and in model systems has demonstrated reduced gene flow in rearranged segments. However, there are limits to what we can understand from a small number of model systems, which each only tell us about one episode of chromosomal speciation. Progressing from patterns of association between chromosome (and genic) change, to understanding processes of speciation requires both comparative studies across diverse systems and integration of genome-scale sequence comparisons with other lines of evidence. Here, we showcase a promising example of chromosomal speciation in a non-model organism, the endemic Australian marsupial genus Petrogale. We present initial phylogenetic results from exon-capture that resolve a history of divergence associated with extensive and repeated CRs. Yet it remains challenging to disentangle gene tree heterogeneity caused by recent divergence and gene flow in this and other such recent radiations. We outline a way forward for better integration of comparative genomic sequence data with evidence from molecular cytogenetics, and analyses of shifts in the recombination landscape and potential disruption of meiotic segregation and epigenetic programming. In all likelihood, CRs impact multiple cellular processes and these effects need to be considered together, along with effects of genic divergence. Understanding the effects of CRs together with genic divergence will require development of more integrative theory and inference methods. Together, new data and analysis tools will combine to shed light on long standing questions of how chromosome and genic divergence promote speciation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Potter
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, ActonACT, Australia
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, SydneyNSW, Australia
| | - Jason G. Bragg
- National Herbarium of New South Wales, The Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust, SydneyNSW, Australia
| | - Mozes P. K. Blom
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genetics, Swedish Museum of Natural HistoryStockholm, Sweden
| | - Janine E. Deakin
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, BruceACT, Australia
| | - Mark Kirkpatrick
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, AustinTX, USA
| | - Mark D. B. Eldridge
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, SydneyNSW, Australia
| | - Craig Moritz
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, ActonACT, Australia
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Vermeulen ET, Power ML, Nipperess DA, Beveridge I, Eldridge MDB. Biodiversity of parasite assemblages in the genus Petrogale and its relation to the phylogeny and biogeography of their hosts. AUST J ZOOL 2016. [DOI: 10.1071/zo16023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Parasites form an integral part of overall biodiversity although they are often overlooked in conservation management, where emphasis is primarily directed towards the host. Parasites are often highly specialised to particular hosts, and thus may be just as threatened as the host they inhabit. For many of Australia’s wildlife species, little is known about their associated parasite communities. To begin to address this knowledge gap, we documented the parasite fauna described in the genetically diverse marsupial genus Petrogale, which contains seven species of conservation concern. The literature evaluation showed parasites of Petrogale to be highly diverse, with 17 species of protozoa, 8 species of cestodes, 102 species of nematodes and 30 species of ectoparasites identified in 16 of 17 Petrogale host species. A comparison of the parasite communities amongst Petrogale host species indicated a highly significant correlation between the parasite community similarity, and the phylogeny (P = 0.008) and biogeography (P = 0.0001) of their Petrogale hosts, suggesting high host specificity within their associated parasite assemblages. Five Petrogale species have established species recovery programs and their parasite communities should also be considered threatened, and management of parasite diversity required as part of these conservation programs.
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Ruykys L, Lancaster ML. Population structure and genetic diversity of the black-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race). AUST J ZOOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1071/zo14009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Genetic diversity is a critical determinant of the persistence of populations because it enables animals to evolve and adapt to environmental change. Black-footed rock-wallabies (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race), or warru, once occupied virtually all suitable habitat within the arid zone of central Australia. However, only two metapopulations now remain in the southern portion of this race’s range (South Australia) and a recovery program has involved both in- and ex-situ conservation initiatives. To establish whether genetic factors such as inbreeding may be inhibiting population recovery, the current study examined the population structure and genetic diversity of animals in the three largest-known extant colonies using six polymorphic microsatellite loci. Bayesian and frequency-based assignment tests revealed substantial population structuring (pairwise FST values 0.122–0.278), congruent with geographically distinct colonies. There was some evidence of dispersal, with two migrants identified across two colonies, but little evidence for extensive interbreeding among colonies. Population substructure was evidenced by high values of FIS in one colony. All populations possessed relatively high levels of genetic diversity (allelic richness: 5.1–7.5, heterozygosity: 0.70–0.72). On the basis of a genetic analysis of parentage, approximately half of all males and females in the known metapopulations produced offspring. This has likely contributed to the retention of genetic diversity across colonies. These findings have implications for the management of both the in- and ex-situ warru populations.
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Geraghty PT, Williamson JE, Macbeth WG, Blower DC, Morgan JAT, Johnson G, Ovenden JR, Gillings MR. Genetic structure and diversity of two highly vulnerable carcharhinids in Australian waters. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2014. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Willers N, Berry O, Dale Roberts J. Fine-scale genetic structure and the design of optimal fertility control for an overabundant mammal. CONSERV GENET 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-014-0598-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Hazlitt SL, Goldizen AW, Nicholls JA, Eldridge MDB. Three divergent lineages within an Australian marsupial (Petrogale penicillata) suggest multiple major refugia for mesic taxa in southeast Australia. Ecol Evol 2014; 4:1102-16. [PMID: 24772286 PMCID: PMC3997325 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesic southeastern Australia represents the continent's ancestral biome and is highly biodiverse, yet its phylogeographic history remains poorly understood. Here, we examine mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region and microsatellite diversity in the brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata;n = 279 from 31 sites), to assess historic evolutionary and biogeographic processes in southeastern Australia. Our results (mtDNA, microsatellites) confirmed three geographically discrete and genetically divergent lineages within brush-tailed rock-wallabies, whose divergence appears to date to the mid-Pleistocene. These three lineages had been hypothesized previously but data were limited. While the Northern and Central lineages were separated by a known biogeographic barrier (Hunter Valley), the boundary between the Central and Southern lineages was not. We propose that during particularly cool glacial cycles, the high peaks of the Great Dividing Range and the narrow adjacent coastal plain resulted in a more significant north-south barrier for mesic taxa in southeastern Australia than has been previously appreciated. Similarly, located phylogeographic breaks in codistributed species highlight the importance of these regions in shaping the distribution of biodiversity in southeastern Australia and suggest the existence of three major refuge areas during the Pleistocene. Substructuring within the northern lineage also suggests the occurrence of multiple local refugia during some glacial cycles. Within the three major lineages, most brush-tailed rock-wallaby populations were locally highly structured, indicating limited dispersal by both sexes. The three identified lineages represent evolutionarily significant units and should be managed to maximize the retention of genetic diversity within this threatened species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Hazlitt
- Department of Forest Sciences, Centre for Applied Conservation Research, University of British Columbia2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anne W Goldizen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of QueenslandSt Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - James A Nicholls
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, EH9 3JT, U.K
| | - Mark D B Eldridge
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum6 College St, Sydney, New South Wales, 2010, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, New South Wales, 2109, Australia
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Bond ARF, Jones DN. Roads and macropods: interactions and implications. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1071/am13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the impacts of roads on wildlife and the natural environment is of increasing importance. Macropods (mostly kangaroos and wallabies) are a diverse and widespread taxon in Australia that has been significantly affected by the presence of roads in various ways. We reviewed the available literature on macropods and roads, assessing 60 scientific journal articles, reports and theses. Studies on road mortalities were the most prevalent (n = 29, with 12 on macropods only), revealing both spatial and temporal patterns in occurrence. Behavioural studies in relation to the road environment are limited (n = 2) yet could help our understanding of patterns of road-kill and other impacts. Some macropod populations are critically affected by the presence of roads (e.g. brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata) due to either proportionately high road mortalities and/or population fragmentation, and may face continued decline unless effective road-mitigation measures are implemented. Investigations of various types of road mitigation focussed on wildlife-exclusion fencing and road crossing structures as the most effective option, although the high cost of these measures appears to limit their implementation. Further research into several areas was identified, particularly on species where severe road impacts are likely to result in population declines.
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Lott M, Eldridge M, Hose G, Power M. Nematode community structure in the brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata: Implications of captive breeding and the translocation of wildlife. Exp Parasitol 2012; 132:185-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Revised: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Habitat connectivity, more than species’ biology, influences genetic differentiation in a habitat specialist, the short-eared rock-wallaby (Petrogale brachyotis). CONSERV GENET 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-012-0342-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Wiszniewski J, Corrigan S, Beheregaray LB, Möller LM. Male reproductive success increases with alliance size in Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus). J Anim Ecol 2011; 81:423-31. [PMID: 21981240 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2656.2011.01910.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
1. Determining the extent of variation in male mating strategies and reproductive success is necessary to understand the fitness benefits of social and cooperative behaviour. 2. This study assesses the reproductive success of male Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in a small embayment population where different behavioural strategies of males have previously been identified. Parentage for 44 sampled calves was examined using 23 microsatellite loci and one mitochondrial DNA marker. Our candidate parent pool of 70 males and 64 females contained individuals sampled from both the embayment and adjacent coastal populations. 3. A moderate level of polygyny was detected in our sample. We assigned paternity of 23 calves to 12 males at the strict 95% confidence level and an additional nine calves to two males at the 80% confidence level. The majority (92%) of successful males were identified as residents to the embayment, and 46% of offspring were located within the same social group or community as their father. 4. Our results suggest that the size of alliances was the best predictor of reproductive success for males in this population, while the strength of association among allied males, alliance stability and male ranging patterns had little influence. In line with predictions for male alliances formed between unrelated individuals, we found that reproductive skew within alliances was not large. 5. Together, our genetic and behavioural analyses demonstrate that alliance formation between male dolphins is a successful strategy to enhance reproductive output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Wiszniewski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Molyneux J, Taggart DA, Corrigan A, Frey S. Home-range studies in a reintroduced brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) population in the Grampians National Park, Victoria. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2011. [DOI: 10.1071/am10039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In 2008, after 9 years of presumed local extinction, brush-tailed rock-wallabies (Petrogale penicillata) were reintroduced at Moora Moora Creek in the Grampians National Park, western Victoria. Since little is known about this species in Victoria, the reintroduction presented an important opportunity to gain information on the species’ ecology. Radio-tracking was undertaken and home range determined for three individuals released 11 months before this study and a further five individuals that were released at the commencement of the study in October 2009. Home-range size showed little variation amongst individuals, with a mean overall home range of 26 ha (±1.69, s.e.) and a mean core home range of 2.5 ha (±0.24, s.e.). Newly reintroduced individuals showed higher levels of association with wallabies from the same release and greater site fidelity when known conspecifics were close. Within 5 months of release, newly reintroduced animals showed home ranges similar in both size and distribution to those of animals released 11 months prior.
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Soderquist T. What we don't know and haven't learned about cost - benefit prioritisation of rock-wallaby management. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2011. [DOI: 10.1071/am10053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Research and translocations of brush-tailed rock-wallabies (Petrogale penicillata) in New South Wales have, in conjunction with studies in Victoria and Queensland, provided extensive insights yet also document the high variability in the species’ response to management. Nonetheless, experts are being asked to quantify predicted response for cost–benefit prioritisation models that will rank threatened species and populations worthy of future funding, with little consideration of the basic principles behind adaptive management. The weaknesses of these prioritisation models must be evaluated carefully by experts in order that appropriate advice is provided which genuinely assists decision-making. I explore the questions facing rock-wallaby ecologists as a case study of how much more we need to know and learn within adaptive approaches to conservation before our predictions are robust.
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Telfer WR, Eldridge MDB. High levels of mitochondrial DNA divergence within short-eared rock-wallaby (Petrogale brachyotis) populations in northern Australia. AUST J ZOOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1071/zo09119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Most population genetics studies of rock-wallabies conducted to date have examined remnant colonies of threatened species inhabiting southern Australia. In this study we examined the natural pattern of contemporary and long-term gene flow among colonies of the widespread and abundant short-eared rock-wallaby, Petrogale brachyotis, in the relatively unmodified landscapes of Australia’s tropical north. We sampled 105 wallabies from seven colonies 1.2 km to 250 km apart. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequence analysis was conducted on samples from all colonies and microsatellite analysis (10 loci) on samples from the three largest colonies. The microsatellite data revealed no evidence of inbreeding within colonies, but higher levels of genetic diversity were found in the Kakadu National Park population compared with the smaller, more isolated colonies at Litchfield National Park. Both the mtDNA and microsatellite results showed that populations of P. brachyotis are naturally highly structured even within this relatively intact landscape, with only limited contemporary and long-term gene flow between colonies more than 1.2 km apart. Nine mtDNA control region haplotypes were identified within the seven colonies. There were unusually high levels of sequence divergence (up to 6.9%) within colonies at Litchfield NP. This divergence suggests that multiple taxa may exist within what is currently recognised as P. brachyotis. Alternatively, if current taxonomy is correct, the high levels of divergence raise the possibility of ancestral isolation and divergence of populations in allopatry with subsequent admixture at a secondary contact zone. The possibility that these unusually divergent haplotypes result from introgressive interspecific hybridisation with the sympatric P. concinna appears unlikely.
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Genetic variation and structuring in the threatened koala populations of Southeast Queensland. CONSERV GENET 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-009-9987-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Cystic echinococcosis in a wild population of the brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata), a threatened macropodid. Parasitology 2008; 135:715-23. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182008004423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYInfection of small macropodids with the larval stage ofEchinococcus granulosuscan cause fatalities as well as significant pulmonary impairment and other adverse sequelae. The brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) is a small macropodid listed as vulnerable on the IUCN'sRed List of Threatened Species. This study used radiographic techniques to determine the prevalence and severity of pulmonary hydatid infection and growth rates of hydatid cysts in a wild population of this macropodid. The overall prevalence was 15·3% (9/59 animals) with 20·0% (8/40 animals) of adults infected. During the study period, the death of at least 1 infected animal was directly attributed to pulmonary hydatidosis. Rapid cyst growth occurred in some animals (up to 43% increase in cyst volume in 3 months). Cyst volume reduced lung capacity by up to 17%. Secondary pulmonary changes were uncommon but, in 1 animal, resulted in reduction in lung capacity by approximately 50%. Infection was associated with a higher blood urea concentration, but no significant differences in other blood variables were detected. These results indicate that hydatid infection may be a significant risk to threatened populations of small macropodids and should be addressed in conservation management plans for these animals.
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Biedrzycka A, Konopiński MK. Genetic variability and the effect of habitat fragmentation in spotted suslik Spermophilus suslicus populations from two different regions. CONSERV GENET 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-007-9442-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Wynd NM, Sigg DP, Pople AR, Hazlitt SL, Goldizen AW. Factors affecting female reproductive success and the survival of pouch young in the threatened brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata. AUST J ZOOL 2006. [DOI: 10.1071/zo05064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge of factors affecting the survival of individuals and their reproductive success is essential for threatened species management, but studies assessing these factors are lacking for many threatened rock-wallaby species. In this study we investigated the factors influencing the breeding performance of females and the survival of pouch young in a wild colony of the threatened brush-tailed rock-wallaby. Individuals were trapped between October 2000 and April 2004. More than 50% of the females in the colony were breeding below their full potential and giving birth to only one offspring per year. Most females within the colony bred in synchrony, with a substantial birth peak evident during autumn. Pouch young born in autumn left the pouch during spring and were weaned during summer and autumn when forage was most abundant. Pouch young born during the autumn birth peak or in winter had a substantially higher probability of surviving through to pouch emergence than those born during spring or summer. This study provides demographic parameters that may be used in population models and for comparison with other populations, particularly those that are small and declining. To optimise reproductive success in reintroduction programs, females in good condition and with small pouch young should be released at the end of the wettest season.
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