1
|
Gross IP, Wilson AE, Wolak ME. The fitness consequences of wildlife conservation translocations: a meta-analysis. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:348-371. [PMID: 37844577 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Conservation translocation is a common strategy to offset mounting rates of population declines through the transfer of captive- or wild-origin organisms into areas where conspecific populations are imperilled or completely extirpated. Translocations that supplement existing populations are referred to as reinforcements and can be conducted using captive-origin animals [ex situ reinforcement (ESR)] or wild-origin animals without any captive ancestry [in situ reinforcement (ISR)]. These programs have been criticized for low success rates and husbandry practices that produce individuals with genetic and performance deficits, but the post-release performance of captive-origin or wild-origin translocated groups has not been systematically reviewed to quantify success relative to wild-resident control groups. To assess the disparity in post-release performance of translocated organisms relative to wild-resident conspecifics and examine the association of performance disparity with organismal and methodological factors across studies, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 821 performance comparisons from 171 studies representing nine animal classes (101 species). We found that translocated organisms have 64% decreased odds of out-performing their wild-resident counterparts, supporting claims of systemic issues hampering conservation translocations. To help identify translocation practices that could maximize program success in the future, we further quantified the impact of broad organismal and methodological factors on the disparity between translocated and wild-resident conspecific performance. Pre-release animal enrichment significantly reduced performance disparities, whereas our results suggest no overall effects of taxonomic group, sex, captive generation time, or the type of fitness surrogate measured. This work is the most comprehensive systematic review to date of animal conservation translocations in which wild conspecifics were used as comparators, thereby facilitating an evaluation of the overall impact of this conservation strategy and identifying specific actions to increase success. Our review highlights the need for conservation managers to include both sympatric and allopatric wild-reference groups to ensure the post-release performance of translocated animals can be evaluated. Further, our analyses identify pre-release animal enrichment as a particular strategy for improving the outcomes of animal conservation translocations, and demonstrate how meta-analysis can be used to identify implementation choices that maximize translocated animal contributions to recipient population growth and viability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iwo P Gross
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, 120 W. Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Alan E Wilson
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, 382 Mell Street, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Matthew E Wolak
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, 120 W. Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang W, Lin K, Fu W, Xie J, Fan X, Zhang M, Luo H, Yin Y, Guo Q, Huang H, Chen T, Lin X, Yuan Y, Huang C, Du S. Insights for the Captive Management of South China Tigers Based on a Large-Scale Genetic Survey. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:398. [PMID: 38674333 PMCID: PMC11049310 DOI: 10.3390/genes15040398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need to find a way to improve the genetic diversity of captive South China tiger (SCT, Panthera tigris amoyensis), the most critically endangered taxon of living tigers, facing inbreeding depression. The genomes showed that 13 hybrid SCTs from Meihuashan were divided into two groups; one group included three individuals who had a closer relationship with pureblood SCTs than another group. The three individuals shared more that 40% of their genome with pureblood SCTs and might be potential individuals for genetic rescuing in SCTs. A large-scale genetic survey based on 319 pureblood SCTs showed that the mean microsatellite inbreeding coefficient of pureblood SCTs decreased significantly from 0.1789 to 0.0600 (p = 0.000009) and the ratio of heterozygous loci increased significantly from 38.5% to 43.2% (p = 0.02) after one individual of the Chongqing line joined the Suzhou line and began to breed in the mid-1980s, which is a reason why the current SCTs keep a moderate level of microsatellite heterozygosity and nucleotide diversity. However, it is important to establish a back-up population based on the three individuals through introducing one pureblood SCT into the back-up population every year. The back-up population should be an important reserve in case the pureblood SCTs are in danger in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Monitoring Biological Diversity in Minshan Mountain of National Park of Giant Pandas, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang 621000, China; (W.Z.)
| | - Kaixiong Lin
- Fujian Meihuashan Institute of South China Tiger Breeding, Longyan 364201, China; (K.L.); (H.L.)
| | - Wenyuan Fu
- Longyan Geopark Protection and Development Center, Longyan 364201, China
| | - Junjin Xie
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu 610081, China
| | - Xueyang Fan
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu 610081, China
| | - Mingchun Zhang
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Chengdu 611830, China;
| | - Hongxing Luo
- Fujian Meihuashan Institute of South China Tiger Breeding, Longyan 364201, China; (K.L.); (H.L.)
| | | | - Qiang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Monitoring Biological Diversity in Minshan Mountain of National Park of Giant Pandas, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang 621000, China; (W.Z.)
| | - He Huang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu 610081, China
| | - Tengteng Chen
- Fujian Meihuashan Institute of South China Tiger Breeding, Longyan 364201, China; (K.L.); (H.L.)
| | - Xipan Lin
- Fujian Meihuashan Institute of South China Tiger Breeding, Longyan 364201, China; (K.L.); (H.L.)
| | | | - Cheng Huang
- Fujian Meihuashan Institute of South China Tiger Breeding, Longyan 364201, China; (K.L.); (H.L.)
| | - Shizhang Du
- Key Laboratory of Monitoring Biological Diversity in Minshan Mountain of National Park of Giant Pandas, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang 621000, China; (W.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Skorupski J, Brandes F, Seebass C, Festl W, Śmietana P, Balacco J, Jain N, Tilley T, Abueg L, Wood J, Sims Y, Formenti G, Fedrigo O, Jarvis ED. Prioritizing Endangered Species in Genome Sequencing: Conservation Genomics in Action with the First Platinum-Standard Reference-Quality Genome of the Critically Endangered European Mink Mustela lutreola L., 1761. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14816. [PMID: 37834264 PMCID: PMC10573602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The European mink Mustela lutreola (Mustelidae) ranks among the most endangered mammalian species globally, experiencing a rapid and severe decline in population size, density, and distribution. Given the critical need for effective conservation strategies, understanding its genomic characteristics becomes paramount. To address this challenge, the platinum-quality, chromosome-level reference genome assembly for the European mink was successfully generated under the project of the European Mink Centre consortium. Leveraging PacBio HiFi long reads, we obtained a 2586.3 Mbp genome comprising 25 scaffolds, with an N50 length of 154.1 Mbp. Through Hi-C data, we clustered and ordered the majority of the assembly (>99.9%) into 20 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including heterosomes, ranging from 6.8 to 290.1 Mbp. The newly sequenced genome displays a GC base content of 41.9%. Additionally, we successfully assembled the complete mitochondrial genome, spanning 16.6 kbp in length. The assembly achieved a BUSCO (Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs) completeness score of 98.2%. This high-quality reference genome serves as a valuable genomic resource for future population genomics studies concerning the European mink and related taxa. Furthermore, the newly assembled genome holds significant potential in addressing key conservation challenges faced by M. lutreola. Its applications encompass potential revision of management units, assessment of captive breeding impacts, resolution of phylogeographic questions, and facilitation of monitoring and evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of dedicated conservation strategies for the European mink. This species serves as an example that highlights the paramount importance of prioritizing endangered species in genome sequencing projects due to the race against time, which necessitates the comprehensive exploration and characterization of their genomic resources before their populations face extinction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Skorupski
- Institute of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13 St., 71-415 Szczecin, Poland
- Polish Society for Conservation Genetics LUTREOLA, Maciejkowa 21 St., 71-784 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Florian Brandes
- Wildtier- und Artenschutzstation e.V., Hohe Warte 1, 31553 Sachsenhagen, Germany
| | | | - Wolfgang Festl
- EuroNerz e.V., Kleine Gildewart 3, 49074 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Przemysław Śmietana
- Institute of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13 St., 71-415 Szczecin, Poland
- Polish Society for Conservation Genetics LUTREOLA, Maciejkowa 21 St., 71-784 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jennifer Balacco
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nivesh Jain
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Tatiana Tilley
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Linelle Abueg
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jonathan Wood
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ying Sims
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Giulio Formenti
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Olivier Fedrigo
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Erich D. Jarvis
- Vertebrate Genome Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 366, New York, NY 10065, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bandeli M, Mellor EL, Kroshko J, Maherali H, Mason GJ. The welfare problems of wide-ranging Carnivora reflect naturally itinerant lifestyles. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:230437. [PMID: 37680500 PMCID: PMC10480699 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.230437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Carnivora with naturally small home ranges readily adjust to the evolutionarily new environment of captivity, but wider-ranging species seem prone to stress. Understanding why would advance both collection planning and enclosure design. We therefore investigated which aspects of wide-ranging lifestyles are key. We identified eight correlates of home range size (reflecting energetic needs, movement, intra-specific interactions, and itinerant lifestyles). We systematically assessed whether these correlates predict welfare better than range size per se, using data on captive juvenile mortality (from 13 518 individuals across 42 species) and stereotypic route-tracing (456 individuals, 27 species). Naturally itinerant lifestyles (quantified via ratios of daily to annual travel distances) were found to confer risk, predicting greater captive juvenile losses and stereotypic time-budgets. This finding advances our understanding of the evolutionary basis for welfare problems in captive Carnivora, helping explain why naturally sedentary species (e.g. American mink) may breed even in intensive farm conditions, while others (e.g. polar bears, giant pandas) can struggle even in modern zoos and conservation breeding centres. Naturally itinerant lifestyles involve decision-making, and strategic shifts between locations, suggesting that supplying more novelty, cognitive challenge and/or opportunities for control will be effective ways to meet these animals' welfare needs in captivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Bandeli
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emma L. Mellor
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jeanette Kroshko
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hafiz Maherali
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Georgia J. Mason
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Regnet RA, Rech I, Rödder D, Solé M. Captive breeding, embryonic and larval development of Ranitomeyavariabilis (Zimmermann & Zimmermann, 1988), (Anura, Dendrobatidae). Zookeys 2023; 1172:131-153. [PMID: 37547178 PMCID: PMC10398561 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1172.98603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A solid basis to address the conservation challenges of amphibians requires an increased knowledge on their natural history and biology. Recent data on reproductive modes in amphibians suggest that they are much more complex and variable than previously thought but understudied. However, detailed information on the reproductive history is especially important to fill the current knowledge gaps. Following recent taxonomic changes in Ranitomeyavariabilis, information about captive-breeding management, image-based measurements of total length and surface area of the silhouette for individuals from embryonic to metamorphic development, and detailed larval staging for captive-bred specimens are provided from French Guiana. The development of R.variabilis from the stage eight (Gosner 1960) through metamorphosis took 79 to 91 days (n = 6) with a survival rate of 46%. The developmental stages largely matched those of the generalized staging system of Gosner (1960), with differences in the stages when labia and teeth differentiation and atrophy of the oral apparatus occurred. Compared with other studies the total length of R.variabilis tadpoles was greater at given stages than those of R.variabilis from a Peruvian population and those of the sister species, R.amazonica. Other studies concerning growth curves based on surface area data revealed that R.variabilis tadpoles at peak size were larger than those of R.amazonica, R.imitator, R.reticulata, R.sirensis, and R.vanzolinii, but smaller than R.benedicta. Our results represent the first embryonic and larval staging for R.variabilis, and detailed information is provided on their initial life phases. These data may facilitate the identification of R.variabilis tadpoles in the wild, as well helping to clarify the biogeographical distribution and taxonomic arrangement of the species. In addition, knowledge is added to the captive-breeding methodology for the species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Anastasia Regnet
- LIB, Museum Koenig, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, Adenauerallee 127, D-53113 Bonn, GermanyMuseum KoenigBonnGermany
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Zoologia, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, 45662-900 Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, BrazilUniversidade Estadual de Santa CruzIlhéusBrazil
| | - Inna Rech
- LIB, Museum Koenig, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, Adenauerallee 127, D-53113 Bonn, GermanyMuseum KoenigBonnGermany
| | - Dennis Rödder
- LIB, Museum Koenig, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, Adenauerallee 127, D-53113 Bonn, GermanyMuseum KoenigBonnGermany
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Zoologia, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, 45662-900 Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, BrazilUniversidade Estadual de Santa CruzIlhéusBrazil
| | - Mirco Solé
- LIB, Museum Koenig, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, Adenauerallee 127, D-53113 Bonn, GermanyMuseum KoenigBonnGermany
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Zoologia, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, 45662-900 Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, BrazilUniversidade Estadual de Santa CruzIlhéusBrazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Linking management practices with survival to improve outcomes for a red wolf population. J Wildl Manage 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
|
7
|
The Relationship between Inbreeding and Fitness Is Different between Two Genetic Lines of European Bison. DIVERSITY 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/d15030368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The pedigree data for European bison are published in the European Bison Pedigree Book, established one hundred years ago. The species passed a serious bottleneck and was kept in captivity for more than 30 years. After reintroduction, some individuals were captured and moved to enclosures, which caused gaps in pedigree data. To prevent the underestimation of inbreeding value, only animals with a fully known pedigree were used in the analysis. European bison were divided into two genetic lines, Lowland-Caucasian (LC) and Lowland (LB), with different numbers of founders (all 12 vs. 7 of them). The relation between inbreeding and survival up to one month of age, calculated using logistic regression, gave different results for every genetic line. In the LC line (N = 5441), the average inbreeding level was equal to 0.253 and the influence into survival was negative (exp(B) = 0.190), but in the LB line (N = 1227), the inbreeding level was much higher (0.410) but the influence into survival was positive (exp(B) = 6.596). It could be assumed that the difference between lines is a result of purging in the first period of species restitution.
Collapse
|
8
|
Genomic diversity and signals of selection processes in wild and farm-reared red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa). Genomics 2023; 115:110591. [PMID: 36849018 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2023.110591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
The genetic dynamics of wild populations with releases of farm-reared reinforcements are very complex. These releases can endanger wild populations through genetic swamping or by displacing them. We assessed the genomic differences between wild and farm-reared red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) and described differential selection signals between both populations. We sequenced the whole genome of 30 wild and 30 farm-reared partridges. Both partridges had similar nucleotide diversity (π). Farm-reared partridges had a more negative Tajima's D and more and longer regions of extended haplotype homozygosity than wild partridges. We observed higher inbreeding coefficients (FIS and FROH) in wild partridges. Selective sweeps (Rsb) were enriched with genes that contribute to the reproductive, skin and feather colouring, and behavioural differences between wild and farm-reared partridges. The analysis of genomic diversity should inform future decisions for the preservation of wild populations.
Collapse
|
9
|
Digby A, Eason D, Catalina A, Lierz M, Galla S, Urban L, Le Lec MF, Guhlin J, Steeves TE, Dearden PK, Joustra T, Lees C, Davis T, Vercoe D. Hidden impacts of conservation management on fertility of the critically endangered kākāpō. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14675. [PMID: 36755872 PMCID: PMC9901309 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Animal conservation often requires intensive management actions to improve reproductive output, yet any adverse effects of these may not be immediately apparent, particularly in threatened species with small populations and long lifespans. Hand-rearing is an example of a conservation management strategy which, while boosting populations, can cause long-term demographic and behavioural problems. It is used in the recovery of the critically endangered kākāpō (Strigops habroptilus), a flightless parrot endemic to New Zealand, to improve the slow population growth that is due to infrequent breeding, low fertility and low hatching success. Methods We applied Bayesian mixed models to examine whether hand-rearing and other factors were associated with clutch fertility in kākāpō. We used projection predictive variable selection to compare the relative contributions to fertility from the parents' rearing environment, their age and previous copulation experience, the parental kinship, and the number of mates and copulations for each clutch. We also explored how the incidence of repeated copulations and multiple mates varied with kākāpō density. Results The rearing status of the clutch father and the number of mates and copulations of the clutch mother were the dominant factors in predicting fertility. Clutches were less likely to be fertile if the father was hand-reared compared to wild-reared, but there was no similar effect for mothers. Clutches produced by females copulating with different males were more likely to be fertile than those from repeated copulations with one male, which in turn had a higher probability of fertility than those from a single copulation. The likelihood of multiple copulations and mates increased with female:male adult sex ratio, perhaps as a result of mate guarding by females. Parental kinship, copulation experience and age all had negligible associations with clutch fertility. Conclusions These results provide a rare assessment of factors affecting fertility in a wild threatened bird species, with implications for conservation management. The increased fertility due to multiple mates and copulations, combined with the evidence for mate guarding and previous results of kākāpō sperm morphology, suggests that an evolutionary mechanism exists to optimise fertility through sperm competition in kākāpō. The high frequency of clutches produced from single copulations in the contemporary population may therefore represent an unnatural state, perhaps due to too few females. This suggests that opportunity for sperm competition should be maximised by increasing population densities, optimising sex ratios, and using artificial insemination. The lower fertility of hand-reared males may result from behavioural defects due to lack of exposure to conspecifics at critical development stages, as seen in other taxa. This potential negative impact of hand-rearing must be balanced against the short-term benefits it provides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Digby
- Kākāpō Recovery Programme, Department of Conservation, Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - Daryl Eason
- Kākāpō Recovery Programme, Department of Conservation, Invercargill, New Zealand
| | | | - Michael Lierz
- Clinic for Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians and Fish, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Galla
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand,Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, United States of America
| | - Lara Urban
- Genomics Aotearoa, Dunedin, New Zealand,Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Marissa F. Le Lec
- Genomics Aotearoa, Dunedin, New Zealand,Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Joseph Guhlin
- Genomics Aotearoa, Dunedin, New Zealand,Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Tammy E. Steeves
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand,Genomics Aotearoa, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Peter K. Dearden
- Genomics Aotearoa, Dunedin, New Zealand,Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Caroline Lees
- IUCN SSC Conservation Planning Specialist Group, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tane Davis
- Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Deidre Vercoe
- Kākāpō Recovery Programme, Department of Conservation, Invercargill, New Zealand
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Siciliano-Martina L, Martina JP, Dohnalik E, Vielleux G. Factors influencing the timing and frequency of litters in captive fennec foxes (Vulpes zerda). Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 248:107182. [PMID: 36529013 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining reproductive seasonality can be vital to the fitness of wild animals. Certain species, however, may display aseasonal reproduction and may produce multiple yearly litters when maintained in captivity. Wild fennec foxes (Vulpes zerda), for example, produce a single litter in March or April although their reproductive behaviors are reportedly variable in captivity. Here, we used the fennec fox studbook to extract traits related to reproductive variability in 220 captive-born litters. The captive litters in our dataset were born during every month of the year and nearly half (47%) were born outside of the expected months. The production of multiple litters in a single year was common, where 67% of the litters represented a second annual litter for a given dam. We detected several traits related to multi-litter years, including the dam's ability to habituate to the birth location, the dam's age, the dam's number of previous litters, and the dam's birth month. Although producing multiple litters within a year has been anecdotally associated with the loss of a previous litter, we did not detect a relationship between multi-litter years and the survivorship of previous litters. These findings suggest that captive populations of fennec foxes may experience a destabilization of their reproductive patterns, which may culminate in the production of multiple litters outside of the typical window of reproduction. Fennec foxes are a common captive species bred in zoos worldwide. Developing a greater understanding of their reproduction can allow for more successful captive management, which may improve future reproductive successes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Siciliano-Martina
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA; Interdisciplinary Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Jason P Martina
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Emma Dohnalik
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Grace Vielleux
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yamazaki Y, Ikeya K. Genetic dynamics of a 11-year ex situ managed Itasenpara bitterling population. CONSERV GENET 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-022-01484-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
12
|
Zoo-Led Initiatives and Their Role in Lemur Conservation In Situ. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202772. [PMID: 36290157 PMCID: PMC9597742 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined wider society's ability to achieve biodiversity conservation and management targets using lemurs as a case study. We evaluated the impact on lemur conservation in situ by conservation initiatives led by European zoos in Madagascar exploring the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria's Conservation Database projects in terms of performed actions and achieved goals as well as communication to the public. We found that zoo-led conservation initiatives may have a positive impact on the ground and tend to achieve most conservation goals related to wild lemurs. However, we suggest that such conservation programmes should underline that they target further lemur species beyond the flagship charismatic species and that enhanced communication efforts would be beneficial to further raise public awareness.
Collapse
|
13
|
Fontani S, Kaburu SSK, Marliani G, Accorsi PA, Vaglio S. Anogenital scent-marking signals fertility in a captive female Alaotran gentle lemur. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:940707. [PMID: 35967991 PMCID: PMC9366254 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.940707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Lake Alaotra gentle lemur (Hapalemur alaotrensis) is one of the 25 most endangered primates in the world and shows low success rate in captive breeding programmes. It is therefore vital to further understand its reproductive biology. We studied a captive troop consisting of five individuals hosted at Jersey Zoo during breeding and non-breeding periods over 1 year. We collected behavioural data (n = 318 h) using all occurrence of some behaviours and ad libitum sampling methods, as well as faecal (n = 54) and anogenital scent (n = 35) samples of the breeding female. We measured sex hormone levels using enzyme immunoassay technique and investigated the volatile component of odour signals using solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We observed sexual and aggressive behaviours occasionally during the breeding period. Our regression analysis showed that only period significantly predicted rates of female anogenital scent-marking, whereby the female performed anogenital scent-marking more frequently during the breeding rather than the non-breeding period. In contrast, female hormone levels did not significantly explain variation in rates of neither male nor female olfactory, sexual and affiliative behaviours, suggesting that individuals' behaviour alone is not an effective indicator of the ovulation window. The volatile chemical profile of anogenital odour secretions changed over the study, with four compounds distinguishing the fertile window during the breeding period. In conclusion, our findings suggest that anogenital scent-marking may signal the reproductive status of captive female gentle lemurs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Fontani
- Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation Group, School of Sciences, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Stefano S. K. Kaburu
- Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation Group, School of Medicine, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanna Marliani
- Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation Group, School of Sciences, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Universitá di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pier Attilio Accorsi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Universitá di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Vaglio
- Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation Group, School of Sciences, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
- Behavioural, Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Stefano Vaglio
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
The genetic consequences of captive breeding, environmental change and human exploitation in the endangered peninsular pronghorn. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11253. [PMID: 35788138 PMCID: PMC9253347 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14468-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Endangered species with small population sizes are susceptible to genetic erosion, which can be detrimental to long-term persistence. Consequently, monitoring and mitigating the loss of genetic diversity are essential for conservation. The Peninsular pronghorn (Antilocapra americana peninsularis) is an endangered pronghorn subspecies that is almost entirely held in captivity. Captive breeding has increased the number of pronghorns from 25 founders in 1997 to around 700 individuals today, but it is unclear how the genetic diversity of the captive herd may have changed over time. We therefore generated and analysed data for 16 microsatellites spanning 2009-2021. We detected a decline in heterozygosity and an increase in the proportion of inbred individuals over time. However, these trends appear to have been partially mitigated by a genetically informed breeding management attempt that was implemented in 2018. We also reconstructed the recent demographic history of the Peninsular pronghorn, revealing two sequential population declines putatively linked to the desertification of the Baja California peninsula around 6000 years ago, and hunting and habitat loss around 500 years ago, respectively. Our results provide insights into the genetic diversity of an endangered antelope and indicate the potential for genetically informed management to have positive conservation outcomes.
Collapse
|
15
|
Beckman AK, Richey BMS, Rosenthal GG. Behavioral responses of wild animals to anthropogenic change: insights from domestication. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-022-03205-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
16
|
Carlson KB, Wcisel DJ, Ackerman HD, Romanet J, Christiansen EF, Niemuth JN, Williams C, Breen M, Stoskopf MK, Dornburg A, Yoder JA. Transcriptome annotation reveals minimal immunogenetic diversity among Wyoming toads, Anaxyrus baxteri. CONSERV GENET 2022; 23:669-681. [PMID: 37090205 PMCID: PMC10118071 DOI: 10.1007/s10592-022-01444-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Briefly considered extinct in the wild, the future of the Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) continues to rely on captive breeding to supplement the wild population. Given its small natural geographic range and history of rapid population decline at least partly due to fungal disease, investigation of the diversity of key receptor families involved in the host immune response represents an important conservation need. Population decline may have reduced immunogenetic diversity sufficiently to increase the vulnerability of the species to infectious diseases. Here we use comparative transcriptomics to examine the diversity of toll-like receptors and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) sequences across three individual Wyoming toads. We find reduced diversity at MHC genes compared to bufonid species with a similar history of bottleneck events. Our data provide a foundation for future studies that seek to evaluate the genetic diversity of Wyoming toads, identify biomarkers for infectious disease outcomes, and guide breeding strategies to increase genomic variability and wild release successes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara B. Carlson
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Dustin J. Wcisel
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Hayley D. Ackerman
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Jessica Romanet
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Emily F. Christiansen
- Environmental Medicine Consortium, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- North Carolina Aquariums, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer N. Niemuth
- Environmental Medicine Consortium, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Christina Williams
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Matthew Breen
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Michael K. Stoskopf
- Environmental Medicine Consortium, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Alex Dornburg
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Yoder
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Howell LG, Johnston SD, O’Brien JK, Frankham R, Rodger JC, Ryan SA, Beranek CT, Clulow J, Hudson DS, Witt RR. Modelling Genetic Benefits and Financial Costs of Integrating Biobanking into the Captive Management of Koalas. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12080990. [PMID: 35454237 PMCID: PMC9028793 DOI: 10.3390/ani12080990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Managed wildlife breeding faces high costs and genetic diversity challenges associated with caring for small populations. Biobanking (freezing of sex cells and tissues for use in assisted breeding) and associated reproductive technologies could help alleviate these issues in koala captive management by enhancing retention of genetic diversity in captive-bred animals and lowering program costs through reductions in the size of the required live captive colonies. Australia’s zoos and wildlife hospitals provide rare opportunities to refine and cost-effectively integrate these tools into conservation outcomes for koalas due to extensive already-existing infrastructure, technical expertise, and captive animals. Abstract Zoo and wildlife hospital networks are set to become a vital component of Australia’s contemporary efforts to conserve the iconic and imperiled koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). Managed breeding programs held across zoo-based networks typically face high economic costs and can be at risk of adverse genetic effects typical of unavoidably small captive colonies. Emerging evidence suggests that biobanking and associated assisted reproductive technologies could address these economic and genetic challenges. We present a modelled scenario, supported by detailed costings, where these technologies are optimized and could be integrated into conservation breeding programs of koalas across the established zoo and wildlife hospital network. Genetic and economic modelling comparing closed captive koala populations suggest that supplementing them with cryopreserved founder sperm using artificial insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection could substantially reduce inbreeding, lower the required colony sizes of conservation breeding programs, and greatly reduce program costs. Ambitious genetic retention targets (maintaining 90%, 95% and 99% of source population heterozygosity for 100 years) could be possible within realistic cost frameworks, with output koalas suited for wild release. Integrating biobanking into the zoo and wildlife hospital network presents a cost-effective and financially feasible model for the uptake of these tools due to the technical and research expertise, captive koala colonies, and ex situ facilities that already exist across these networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G. Howell
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University Geelong, Melbourne Burwood Campus, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
- Correspondence: (L.G.H.); (R.R.W.)
| | - Stephen D. Johnston
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia;
| | - Justine K. O’Brien
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society, Bradleys Head Rd., Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia;
| | - Richard Frankham
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia;
| | - John C. Rodger
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Shelby A. Ryan
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Chad T. Beranek
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Donald S. Hudson
- Port Stephens Koala & Wildlife Preservation Society LTD., t/a Port Stephens Koala Hospital, One Mile, NSW 2316, Australia;
| | - Ryan R. Witt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
- Correspondence: (L.G.H.); (R.R.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Galla SJ, Brown L, Couch-Lewis Ngāi Tahu Te Hapū O Ngāti Wheke Ngāti Waewae Y, Cubrinovska I, Eason D, Gooley RM, Hamilton JA, Heath JA, Hauser SS, Latch EK, Matocq MD, Richardson A, Wold JR, Hogg CJ, Santure AW, Steeves TE. The relevance of pedigrees in the conservation genomics era. Mol Ecol 2021; 31:41-54. [PMID: 34553796 PMCID: PMC9298073 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 50 years conservation genetics has developed a substantive toolbox to inform species management. One of the most long‐standing tools available to manage genetics—the pedigree—has been widely used to characterize diversity and maximize evolutionary potential in threatened populations. Now, with the ability to use high throughput sequencing to estimate relatedness, inbreeding, and genome‐wide functional diversity, some have asked whether it is warranted for conservation biologists to continue collecting and collating pedigrees for species management. In this perspective, we argue that pedigrees remain a relevant tool, and when combined with genomic data, create an invaluable resource for conservation genomic management. Genomic data can address pedigree pitfalls (e.g., founder relatedness, missing data, uncertainty), and in return robust pedigrees allow for more nuanced research design, including well‐informed sampling strategies and quantitative analyses (e.g., heritability, linkage) to better inform genomic inquiry. We further contend that building and maintaining pedigrees provides an opportunity to strengthen trusted relationships among conservation researchers, practitioners, Indigenous Peoples, and Local Communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Galla
- Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, Idaho, USA.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Liz Brown
- New Zealand Department of Conservation, Twizel, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | | | - Ilina Cubrinovska
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Daryl Eason
- New Zealand Department of Conservation, Invercargill, Southland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca M Gooley
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Front Royal, Maryland, USA.,Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jill A Hamilton
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Julie A Heath
- Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, Idaho, USA
| | - Samantha S Hauser
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Emily K Latch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Marjorie D Matocq
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Anne Richardson
- The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Jana R Wold
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Carolyn J Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anna W Santure
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tammy E Steeves
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hogg CJ, Morrison C, Dudley JS, Alquezar‐Planas DE, Beasley‐Hall PG, Magrath MJL, Ho SYW, Lo N, Johnson RN, Grueber CE. Using phylogenetics to explore interspecies genetic rescue options for a critically endangered parrot. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn J. Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Caitlin Morrison
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Australian Museum Research Institute Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Jessica S. Dudley
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | | | - Perry G. Beasley‐Hall
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Michael J. L. Magrath
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria Melbourne Victoria Australia
- School of BioSciences University of Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Simon Y. W. Ho
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Nathan Lo
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Rebecca N. Johnson
- Australian Museum Research Institute Sydney New South Wales Australia
- National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Catherine E. Grueber
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| |
Collapse
|