1
|
Hinkson KM, Poo S. Inbreeding depression in sperm quality in a critically endangered amphibian. Zoo Biol 2020; 39:197-204. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Hinkson
- Memphis Zoo, Department of Conservation and ResearchMemphis Zoological SocietyMemphis Tennessee
| | - Sinlan Poo
- Memphis Zoo, Department of Conservation and ResearchMemphis Zoological SocietyMemphis Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Watt AM, Marcec-Greaves R, Pitcher TE. Time from injection of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analog affects sperm quality in the critically endangered Mississippi gopher frog (Lithobates sevosus). Zoo Biol 2019; 39:23-28. [PMID: 31617256 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21519] [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: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate variation in sperm quality metrics (motility, velocity, and concentration) in the critically endangered Mississippi gopher frog (Lithobates sevosus) over three sampling time points after a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analog (LHRHa) induction injection. Sperm was repeatedly collected from 11 individuals over three sampling times (30, 60, and 120 min) after injection. Variation in sperm quality was investigated using a repeated-measures mixed model approach. Repeated measures analyses of variance showed a significant effect of sampling time for percent motility and velocity. Concentration was found to be marginally related to sampling time, while progressive motility was not significantly related to time after injection. Our findings are important for optimizing assisted reproduction-related fertilization success and increasing the successful propagation of endangered species of imperiled frogs in captive breeding programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Michelle Watt
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth Marcec-Greaves
- National Amphibian Conservation Center, Detroit Zoological Society, Royal Oak, Michigan
| | - Trevor Edgar Pitcher
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada.,Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cummins D, Kennington WJ, Rudin-Bitterli T, Mitchell NJ. A genome-wide search for local adaptation in a terrestrial-breeding frog reveals vulnerability to climate change. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2019; 25:3151-3162. [PMID: 31273907 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.14703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Terrestrial-breeding amphibians are likely to be vulnerable to warming and drying climates, as their embryos require consistent moisture for successful development. Adaptation to environmental change will depend on sufficient genetic variation existing within or between connected populations. Here, we use Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) data to investigate genome-wide patterns in genetic diversity, gene flow and local adaptation in a terrestrial-breeding frog (Pseudophryne guentheri) subject to a rapidly drying climate and recent habitat fragmentation. The species was sampled across 12 central and range-edge populations (192 samples), and strong genetic structure was apparent, as were high inbreeding coefficients. Populations showed differences in genetic diversity, and one population lost significant genetic diversity in a decade. More than 500 SNP loci were putatively under directional selection, and 413 of these loci were correlated with environmental variables such as temperature, rainfall, evaporation and soil moisture. One locus showed homology to a gene involved in the activation of maturation in Xenopus oocytes, which may facilitate rapid development of embryos in drier climates. The low genetic diversity, strong population structuring and presence of local adaptation revealed in this study shows why management strategies such as targeted gene flow may be necessary to assist isolated populations to adapt to future climates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deanne Cummins
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - W Jason Kennington
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Tabitha Rudin-Bitterli
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Nicola J Mitchell
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Poo S, Hinkson KM. Applying cryopreservation to anuran conservation biology. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sinlan Poo
- Department of Research and Conservation, Memphis Zoological Society Memphis Tennessee
| | - Kristin M. Hinkson
- Department of Research and Conservation, Memphis Zoological Society Memphis Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gene-flow in the clouds: landscape genetics of a viviparous, montane grassland toad in the tropics. CONSERV GENET 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-017-1029-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
6
|
Melen MK, Herman JA, Lucas J, O'Malley RE, Parker IM, Thom AM, Whittall JB. Reproductive success through high pollinator visitation rates despite self incompatibility in an endangered wallflower. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY 2016; 103:1979-1989. [PMID: 27864264 DOI: 10.3732/ajb.1600193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE OF THE STUDY Self incompatibility (SI) in rare plants presents a unique challenge-SI protects plants from inbreeding depression, but requires a sufficient number of mates and xenogamous pollination. Does SI persist in an endangered polyploid? Is pollinator visitation sufficient to ensure reproductive success? Is there evidence of inbreeding/outbreeding depression? We characterized the mating system, primary pollinators, pollen limitation, and inbreeding/outbreeding depression in Erysimum teretifolium to guide conservation efforts. METHODS We compared seed production following self pollination and within- and between-population crosses. Pollen tubes were visualized after self pollinations and between-population pollinations. Pollen limitation was tested in the field. Pollinator observations were quantified using digital video. Inbreeding/outbreeding depression was assessed in progeny from self and outcross pollinations at early and later developmental stages. KEY RESULTS Self-pollination reduced seed set by 6.5× and quadrupled reproductive failure compared with outcross pollination. Pollen tubes of some self pollinations were arrested at the stigmatic surface. Seed-set data indicated strong SI, and fruit-set data suggested partial SI. Pollinator diversity and visitation rates were high, and there was no evidence of pollen limitation. Inbreeding depression (δ) was weak for early developmental stages and strong for later developmental stages, with no evidence of outbreeding depression. CONCLUSIONS The rare hexaploid E. teretifolium is largely self incompatible and suffers from late-acting inbreeding depression. Reproductive success in natural populations was accomplished through high pollinator visitation rates consistent with a lack of pollen limitation. Future reproductive health for this species will require large population sizes with sufficient mates and a robust pollinator community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miranda K Melen
- Department of Environmental Studies, San Jose State University, One Washington Square, San Jose, California 95192 USA
| | - Julie A Herman
- Department of Biology, Santa Clara University, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, California 95053 USA
| | - Jessica Lucas
- Southern Illinois University, 1125 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, Illinois 62902 USA
| | - Rachel E O'Malley
- Department of Environmental Studies, San Jose State University, One Washington Square, San Jose, California 95192 USA
| | - Ingrid M Parker
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, California 95064 USA
| | - Aaron M Thom
- Department of Biology, Santa Clara University, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, California 95053 USA
| | - Justen B Whittall
- Department of Biology, Santa Clara University, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, California 95053 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hinkson KM, Henry NL, Hensley NM, Richter SC. Initial founders of captive populations are genetically representative of natural populations in critically endangered dusky gopher frogs, Lithobates sevosus. Zoo Biol 2016; 35:378-384. [PMID: 27383748 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The rapid rate of decline in amphibian populations has urged many researchers and conservationists to establish captive, or ex situ, populations. Such populations are guarded against effects of habitat loss and degradation, and if actively managed, can serve as a reservoir for rare alleles that might be lost in the wild. Without proper management, ex situ population sizes can dwindle and will no longer perform this function. The dusky gopher frog, Lithobates sevosus, is a critically endangered species, imperiled by habitat loss and population isolation. To assist in recovery of the species and prevent further genetic erosion, a captive breeding program was initiated. We investigated how well natural genetic variation was captured within the ex situ population and determined relatedness within each ex situ population. We genotyped individuals from two natural populations and two founding, captive populations to compare metrics of genetic variation and relatedness. The data show the initial founder populations are genetically representative of the natural populations, although variation is low in each, and that relatedness values are similar. Therefore, founding captive populations were successful at capturing genetic variation in the wild. Future research should continue to compare genetic variation of captive and natural populations to monitor efficacy of their management programs. Zoo Biol. 35:378-384, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Hinkson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky
| | - Natochia L Henry
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky
| | - Nina M Hensley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky
| | - Stephen C Richter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky. .,Division of Natural Areas, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Earl JE, Chaney JC, Sutton WB, Lillard CE, Kouba AJ, Langhorne C, Krebs J, Wilkes RP, Hill RD, Miller DL, Gray MJ. Ranavirus could facilitate local extinction of rare amphibian species. Oecologia 2016; 182:611-23. [DOI: 10.1007/s00442-016-3682-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
9
|
Hinkson KM, Richter SC. Temporal trends in genetic data and effective population size support efficacy of management practices in critically endangered dusky gopher frogs (Lithobates sevosus). Ecol Evol 2016; 6:2667-78. [PMID: 27066242 PMCID: PMC4798149 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 02/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring temporal changes in population genetic diversity and effective population size can provide vital information on future viability. The dusky gopher frog, Lithobates sevosus, is a critically endangered species found only in coastal Mississippi, with low genetic variability as a consequence of isolation and population size reduction. Conservation management practices have been implemented, but their efficacy has not been addressed. We genotyped individuals collected 1997-2014 to determine temporal trends in population genetic variation, structure, and effective size. Observed and expected heterozygosity and allelic richness revealed temporally stable, but low, levels of genetic variation. Positive levels of inbreeding were found in each year. There was weak genetic structure among years, which can be attributed to increased effects of genetic drift and inbreeding in small populations. L. sevosus exhibited an increase in effective population size, and currently has an estimated effective size of 33.0-58.6 individuals, which is approximately half the census size. This large ratio could possibly be explained by genetic compensation. We found that management practices have been effective at maintaining and improving effective size and genetic diversity, but that additional strategies need to be implemented to enhance viability of the species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Hinkson
- Department of Biological SciencesEastern Kentucky UniversityRichmondKentucky40475
| | - Stephen C. Richter
- Department of Biological SciencesEastern Kentucky UniversityRichmondKentucky40475
- Division of Natural AreasEastern Kentucky UniversityRichmondKentucky40475
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McCartney-Melstad E, Shaffer HB. Amphibian molecular ecology and how it has informed conservation. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:5084-109. [PMID: 26437125 DOI: 10.1111/mec.13391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Molecular ecology has become one of the key tools in the modern conservationist's kit. Here we review three areas where molecular ecology has been applied to amphibian conservation: genes on landscapes, within-population processes, and genes that matter. We summarize relevant analytical methods, recent important studies from the amphibian literature, and conservation implications for each section. Finally, we include five in-depth examples of how molecular ecology has been successfully applied to specific amphibian systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evan McCartney-Melstad
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science, and Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, 610 Charles E Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - H Bradley Shaffer
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science, and Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, 610 Charles E Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sutton WB, Gray MJ, Hardman RH, Wilkes RP, Kouba AJ, Miller DL. High susceptibility of the endangered dusky gopher frog to ranavirus. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2014; 112:9-16. [PMID: 25392038 DOI: 10.3354/dao02792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Amphibians are one of the most imperiled vertebrate groups, with pathogens playing a role in the decline of some species. Rare species are particularly vulnerable to extinction because populations are often isolated and exist at low abundance. The potential impact of pathogens on rare amphibian species has seldom been investigated. The dusky gopher frog Lithobates sevosus is one of the most endangered amphibian species in North America, with 100-200 individuals remaining in the wild. Our goal was to determine whether adult L. sevosus were susceptible to ranavirus, a pathogen responsible for amphibian die-offs worldwide. We tested the relative susceptibility of adult L. sevosus to ranavirus (103 plaque-forming units) isolated from a morbid bullfrog via 3 routes of exposure: intra-coelomic (IC) injection, oral (OR) inoculation, and water bath (WB) exposure. We observed 100% mortality of adult L. sevosus in the IC and WB treatments after 10 and 19 d, respectively. Ninety-five percent mortality occurred in the OR treatment over the 28 d evaluation period. No mortality was observed in the control treatment after 28 d. Our results indicate that L. sevosus is susceptible to ranavirus, and if adults in the wild are exposed to this pathogen, significant mortality could occur. Additionally, our study demonstrates that some adult amphibian species can be very susceptible to ranavirus, which has been often overlooked in North American studies. We recommend that conservation planners consider testing the susceptibility of rare amphibian species to ranavirus and that the adult age class is included in future challenge experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William B Sutton
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ferrie GM, Alford VC, Atkinson J, Baitchman E, Barber D, Blaner WS, Crawshaw G, Daneault A, Dierenfeld E, Finke M, Fleming G, Gagliardo R, Hoffman EA, Karasov W, Klasing K, Koutsos E, Lankton J, Lavin SR, Lentini A, Livingston S, Lock B, Mason T, McComb A, Morris C, Pessier AP, Olea-Popelka F, Probst T, Rodriguez C, Schad K, Semmen K, Sincage J, Stamper MA, Steinmetz J, Sullivan K, Terrell S, Wertan N, Wheaton CJ, Wilson B, Valdes EV. Nutrition and health in amphibian husbandry. Zoo Biol 2014; 33:485-501. [PMID: 25296396 PMCID: PMC4685711 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Revised: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Amphibian biology is intricate, and there are many inter-related factors that need to be understood before establishing successful Conservation Breeding Programs (CBPs). Nutritional needs of amphibians are highly integrated with disease and their husbandry needs, and the diversity of developmental stages, natural habitats, and feeding strategies result in many different recommendations for proper care and feeding. This review identifies several areas where there is substantial room for improvement in maintaining healthy ex situ amphibian populations specifically in the areas of obtaining and utilizing natural history data for both amphibians and their dietary items, achieving more appropriate environmental parameters, understanding stress and hormone production, and promoting better physical and population health. Using a scientific or research framework to answer questions about disease, nutrition, husbandry, genetics, and endocrinology of ex situ amphibians will improve specialists' understanding of the needs of these species. In general, there is a lack of baseline data and comparative information for most basic aspects of amphibian biology as well as standardized laboratory approaches. Instituting a formalized research approach in multiple scientific disciplines will be beneficial not only to the management of current ex situ populations, but also in moving forward with future conservation and reintroduction projects. This overview of gaps in knowledge concerning ex situ amphibian care should serve as a foundation for much needed future research in these areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gina M. Ferrie
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
- Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
| | - Vance C. Alford
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Jim Atkinson
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Andy Daneault
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | | | | | - Greg Fleming
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | | | - Eric A. Hoffman
- Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
| | - William Karasov
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Kirk Klasing
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate Program in Avian Sciences, UC Davis, Davis, CA
| | | | - Julia Lankton
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Shana R. Lavin
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | | | - Shannon Livingston
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | | | | | | | | | - Allan P. Pessier
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | | | - Tom Probst
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Carlos Rodriguez
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Kristine Schad
- European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kent Semmen
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Jamie Sincage
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - M. Andrew Stamper
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Jason Steinmetz
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Kathleen Sullivan
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Scott Terrell
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Nina Wertan
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Catharine J. Wheaton
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
| | - Brad Wilson
- Amphibian Ark, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA
| | - Eduardo V. Valdes
- Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
- Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Richter SC, Nunziata SO. Survival to metamorphosis is positively related to genetic variability in a critically endangered amphibian species. Anim Conserv 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. C. Richter
- Department of Biological Sciences; Eastern Kentucky University; Richmond KY USA
| | - S. O. Nunziata
- Department of Biological Sciences; Eastern Kentucky University; Richmond KY USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Population and Conservation Genetics of Crawfish Frogs,Lithobates areolatus, at Their Northeastern Range Limit. J HERPETOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1670/12-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
15
|
Amphibian communities in natural and constructed ridge top wetlands with implications for wetland construction. J Wildl Manage 2013. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
16
|
Rogers SD, Peacock MM. The disappearing northern leopard frog (Lithobates pipiens): conservation genetics and implications for remnant populations in western Nevada. Ecol Evol 2012; 2:2040-56. [PMID: 22957204 PMCID: PMC3434006 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Revised: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Global amphibian declines suggest a major shift in the amount and quality of habitat for these sensitive taxa. Many species that were once widespread are now experiencing declines either in part of or across their historic range. The northern leopard frog (Rana [Lithobates] pipiens] has undergone significant declines particularly in the western United States and Canada. Leopard frog population losses in Nevada are largely due to habitat fragmentation and the introduction of nonnative fish, amphibian, and plant species. Only two populations remain in the Truckee and Carson River watersheds of western Nevada which represents the western boundary of this species range. We used sequence data for an 812 base pair fragment of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 1 (ND1) gene to support a native origin for western Nevada populations. All frogs had a single haplotype (W07) from the distinct western North America ND1 haplotype clade. Data from seven polymorphic microsatellite loci show that Truckee and Carson River populations are highly differentiated from each other and from leopard frogs collected from eastern Nevada sites. Lack of gene flow among and distinct color morphs among the western Nevada populations likely predates the current geographical isolation. Comparisons with other peripheral L. pipiens populations show western Nevada populations have similar levels of gene diversity despite their contemporary isolation (HE 0.411, 0.482). Restoration of leopard frog populations in these watersheds will be challenging given well-entrenched nonnative bullfrog populations and major changes to the riparian zone over the past century. Declines of once common amphibian species has become a major conservation concern. Contemporary isolation of populations on a species range periphery such as the leopard frog populations in the Truckee and Carson rivers further exacerbate extirpation risk as these populations are likely to have fewer genetic resources to adaptively respond to rapidly changing biotic and abiotic environments.
Collapse
|
17
|
Gratwicke B, Lovejoy TE, Wildt DE. Will Amphibians Croak under the Endangered Species Act? Bioscience 2012. [DOI: 10.1525/bio.2012.62.2.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
|
18
|
Richter SC, Jackson JA, Hinderliter M, Epperson D, Theodorakis CW, Adams SM. Conservation Genetics of the Largest Cluster of Federally Threatened Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) Colonies with Implications for Species Management. HERPETOLOGICA 2011. [DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-10-00044.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
19
|
Engbrecht NJ, Lannoo SJ, Whitaker JO, Lannoo MJ. Comparative Morphometrics in Ranid Frogs (Subgenus Nenirana): Are Apomorphic Elongation and a Blunt Snout Responses to Small-bore Burrow Dwelling in Crawfish Frogs (Lithobates areolatus)? COPEIA 2011. [DOI: 10.1643/cg-10-075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|