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Ciucani MM, Ramos-Madrigal J, Hernández-Alonso G, Carmagnini A, Aninta SG, Sun X, Scharff-Olsen CH, Lanigan LT, Fracasso I, Clausen CG, Aspi J, Kojola I, Baltrūnaitė L, Balčiauskas L, Moore J, Åkesson M, Saarma U, Hindrikson M, Hulva P, Bolfíková BČ, Nowak C, Godinho R, Smith S, Paule L, Nowak S, Mysłajek RW, Lo Brutto S, Ciucci P, Boitani L, Vernesi C, Stenøien HK, Smith O, Frantz L, Rossi L, Angelici FM, Cilli E, Sinding MHS, Gilbert MTP, Gopalakrishnan S. The extinct Sicilian wolf shows a complex history of isolation and admixture with ancient dogs. iScience 2023; 26:107307. [PMID: 37559898 PMCID: PMC10407145 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sicilian wolf remained isolated in Sicily from the end of the Pleistocene until its extermination in the 1930s-1960s. Given its long-term isolation on the island and distinctive morphology, the genetic origin of the Sicilian wolf remains debated. We sequenced four nuclear genomes and five mitogenomes from the seven existing museum specimens to investigate the Sicilian wolf ancestry, relationships with extant and extinct wolves and dogs, and diversity. Our results show that the Sicilian wolf is most closely related to the Italian wolf but carries ancestry from a lineage related to European Eneolithic and Bronze Age dogs. The average nucleotide diversity of the Sicilian wolf was half of the Italian wolf, with 37-50% of its genome contained in runs of homozygosity. Overall, we show that, by the time it went extinct, the Sicilian wolf had high inbreeding and low-genetic diversity, consistent with a population in an insular environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Maria Ciucani
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jazmín Ramos-Madrigal
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Germán Hernández-Alonso
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alberto Carmagnini
- Palaeogenomics Group, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Sabhrina Gita Aninta
- Palaeogenomics Group, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Xin Sun
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Liam Thomas Lanigan
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ilaria Fracasso
- Forest Ecology Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige (TN), Italy
| | - Cecilie G. Clausen
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | | | | | - Jane Moore
- Società Amatori Cirneco dell’Etna, Modica (RG), Italy
| | - Mikael Åkesson
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Riddarhyttan, Sweden
| | - Urmas Saarma
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maris Hindrikson
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pavel Hulva
- Charles University, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | | | - Carsten Nowak
- Center for Wildlife Genetics, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany
| | - Raquel Godinho
- CIBIO/InBIO, University of Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Vairão, Portugal
| | - Steve Smith
- Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ladislav Paule
- Faculty of Forestry, Technical University, Zvolen, Slovakia
| | - Sabina Nowak
- Department of Ecology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Robert W. Mysłajek
- Department of Ecology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Sabrina Lo Brutto
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Museum of Zoology "P. Doderlein", SIMUA, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Ciucci
- Università di Roma La Sapienza, Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Roma, Italy
| | - Luigi Boitani
- Università di Roma La Sapienza, Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Roma, Italy
| | - Cristiano Vernesi
- Forest Ecology Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige (TN), Italy
| | - Hans K. Stenøien
- NTNU University Museum, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Oliver Smith
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laurent Frantz
- Palaeogenomics Group, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Francesco Maria Angelici
- FIZV, Via Marco Aurelio 2, Roma, Italy
- National Center for Wildlife, Al Imam Faisal Ibn Turki Ibn Abdullah, Ulaishah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elisabetta Cilli
- Laboratory of Ancient DNA, Department of Cultural Heritage (DBC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mikkel-Holger S. Sinding
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M. Thomas P. Gilbert
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- University Museum, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Shyam Gopalakrishnan
- Section for Evolutionary Genomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kojola I, Hallikainen V, Nivala V, Heikkinen S, Tikkunen M, Huhta E, Ruha L, Pusenius J. Wolf attacks on hunting dogs are negatively related to prey abundance in Finland: an analysis at the wolf territory level. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-023-01652-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Attacks by wolves (Canis lupus) on dogs (C. familiaris) presumably are motivated both by preying and elimination of potential competitors. Regardless of these alternative motivations in wolves, the risk of attacks might be higher when the density of primary prey is low. We examined how many dogs do territorial wolves in Finland kill in relation to the population density of the most abundant ungulates, moose (Alces alces), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Most attacks by wolves on dogs take place in hunting with dogs. The number of wolf-killed dogs was in highly significant negative relationship to the population density of white-tailed deer and to total ungulate biomass per unit area which is largely determined by the density of white-tailed deer. Our results indicate that abundant wild prey would decrease the risk at which wolves attack dogs. On the other side of the coin prevail two hard facts which wildlife managers had to take a notice. White-tailed deer, although a potential mitigator of wolf–human conflict, is an alien species and a partner in > 6000 traffic collisions annually in Finland. One factor that seemed to increase the risk of wolf attacks on dogs is the low ungulate density in regions where moose is the only remarkable ungulate prey. Higher moose densities could decrease the risk of attacks, but on the other hand, higher densities could increase the risk of serious traffic collisions and browsing damages in forests.
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Mäntyniemi S, Helle I, Kojola I. Assessment of the residential Finnish wolf population combines DNA captures, citizen observations and mortality data using a Bayesian state-space model. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-022-01615-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAssessment of the Finnish wolf population relies on multiple sources of information. This paper describes how Bayesian inference is used to pool the information contained in different data sets (point observations, non-invasive genetics, known mortalities) for the estimation of the number of territories occupied by family packs and pairs. The output of the assessment model is a joint probability distribution, which describes current knowledge about the number of wolves within each territory. The joint distribution can be used to derive probability distributions for the total number of wolves in all territories and for the pack status within each territory. Most of the data set comprises of both voluntary-provided point observations and DNA samples provided by volunteers and research personnel. The new method reduces the role of expert judgement in the assessment process, providing increased transparency and repeatability.
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Karppinen S, Rajala T, Mäntyniemi S, Kojola I, Vihola M. Identifying territories using presence-only citizen science data: An application to the Finnish wolf population. Ecol Modell 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2022.110101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Kojola I, Hallikainen V, Kübarsepp M, Männil P, Tikkunen M, Heikkinen S. Does prey scarcity increase the risk of wolf attacks on domestic dogs? Wildlife Biology 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/wlb3.01038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Inst. Finland (Luke) Rovaniemi Finland
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Gurarie E, Bracis C, Brilliantova A, Kojola I, Suutarinen J, Ovaskainen O, Potluri S, Fagan WF. Spatial Memory Drives Foraging Strategies of Wolves, but in Highly Individual Ways. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.768478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of wild animals to navigate and survive in complex and dynamic environments depends on their ability to store relevant information and place it in a spatial context. Despite the centrality of spatial memory, and given our increasing ability to observe animal movements in the wild, it is perhaps surprising how difficult it is to demonstrate spatial memory empirically. We present a cognitive analysis of movements of several wolves (Canis lupus) in Finland during a summer period of intensive hunting and den-centered pup-rearing. We tracked several wolves in the field by visiting nearly all GPS locations outside the den, allowing us to identify the species, location and timing of nearly all prey killed. We then developed a model that assigns a spatially explicit value based on memory of predation success and territorial marking. The framework allows for estimation of multiple cognitive parameters, including temporal and spatial scales of memory. For most wolves, fitted memory-based models outperformed null models by 20 to 50% at predicting locations where wolves chose to forage. However, there was a high amount of individual variability among wolves in strength and even direction of responses to experiences. Some wolves tended to return to locations with recent predation success—following a strategy of foraging site fidelity—while others appeared to prefer a site switching strategy. These differences are possibly explained by variability in pack sizes, numbers of pups, and features of the territories. Our analysis points toward concrete strategies for incorporating spatial memory in the study of animal movements while providing nuanced insights into the behavioral strategies of individual predators.
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Kojola I, Hallikainen V, Heikkinen S, Forsman JT, Kukko T, Pusenius J, Antti P. Calf/female ratio and population dynamics of wild forest reindeer in relation to wolf and moose abundances in a managed European ecosystem. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259246. [PMID: 34965254 PMCID: PMC8716057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The alternative prey hypothesis describes the mechanism for apparent competition whereby the mortality of the secondary prey species increases (and population size decreases decreases) by the increased predation by the shared predator if the population size of the primary prey decreases. Apparent competition is a process where the abundance of two co-existing prey species are negatively associated because they share a mutual predator, which negatively affects the abundance of both prey Here, we examined whether alternative prey and/or apparent competition hypothesis can explain the population dynamics and reproductive output of the secondary prey, wild forest reindeer (Rangifer tarandus fennicus) in Finland, in a predator-prey community in which moose (Alces alces) is the primary prey and the wolf (Canis lupus) is the generalist predator. METHODS We examined a 22-year time series (1996-2017) to determine how the population size and the calf/female ratio of wild forest reindeer in Eastern Finland were related to the abundances of wolf and moose. Only moose population size was regulated by hunting. Summer predation of wolves on reindeer focuses on calves. We used least squares regression (GLS) models (for handling autocorrelated error structures and resulting pseudo-R2s) and generalized linear mixed (GLMs) models (for avoidance of negative predictions) to determine the relationships between abundances. We performed linear and general linear models for the calf/female ratio of reindeer. RESULTS AND SYNTHESIS The trends in reindeer population size and moose abundance were almost identical: an increase during the first years and then a decrease until the last years of our study period. Wolf population size in turn did not show long-term trends. Change in reindeer population size between consecutive winters was related positively to the calf/female ratio. The calf/female ratio was negatively related to wolf population size, but the reindeer population size was related to the wolf population only when moose abundance was entered as another independent variable. The wolf population was not related to moose abundance even though it is likely to consist the majority of the prey biomass. Because reindeer and moose populations were positively associated, our results seemed to support the alternative prey hypothesis more than the apparent competition hypothesis. However, these two hypotheses are not mutually exclusive and the primary mechanism is difficult to distinguish as the system is heavily managed by moose hunting. The recovery of wild forest reindeer in eastern Finland probably requires ecosystem management involving both habitat restoration and control of species abundances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Ounasjoentie, Rovaniemi, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | - Ville Hallikainen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Ounasjoentie, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Samuli Heikkinen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Paavo Havaksentie, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jukka T. Forsman
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Paavo Havaksentie, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tuomas Kukko
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Survontie, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jyrki Pusenius
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Yliopistonkatu, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Paasivaara Antti
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Paavo Havaksentie, Oulu, Finland
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Åkesson M, Flagstad Ø, Aspi J, Kojola I, Liberg O, Wabakken P, Sand H. Genetic signature of immigrants and their effect on genetic diversity in the recently established Scandinavian wolf population. CONSERV GENET 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-021-01423-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractTransboundary connectivity is a key component when conserving and managing animal species that require large areas to maintain viable population sizes. Wolves Canis lupus recolonized the Scandinavian Peninsula in the early 1980s. The population is geographically isolated and relies on immigration to not lose genetic diversity and to maintain long term viability. In this study we address (1) to what extent the genetic diversity among Scandinavian wolves has recovered during 30 years since its foundation in relation to the source populations in Finland and Russia, (2) if immigration has occurred from both Finland and Russia, two countries with very different wolf management and legislative obligations to ensure long term viability of wolves, and (3) if immigrants can be assumed to be unrelated. Using 26 microsatellite loci we found that although the genetic diversity increased among Scandinavian wolves (n = 143), it has not reached the same levels found in Finland (n = 25) or in Russia (n = 19). Low genetic differentiation between Finnish and Russian wolves, complicated our ability to determine the origin of immigrant wolves (n = 20) with respect to nationality. Nevertheless, based on differences in allelic richness and private allelic richness between the two countries, results supported the occurrence of immigration from both countries. A priori assumptions that immigrants are unrelated is non-advisable, since 5.8% of the pair-wise analyzed immigrants were closely related. To maintain long term viability of wolves in Northern Europe, this study highlights the potential and need for management actions that facilitate transboundary dispersal.
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Lamamy C, Delgado MM, Kojola I, Heikkinen S, Penteriani V. Does moonlight affect movement patterns of a non‐obligate carnivore? Brown bears do not mind that the moon exists. J Zool (1987) 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Lamamy
- Forest is life, TERRA Research Unit Gembloux Agro‐Bio Tech Université de Liège Gembloux Belgium
| | - M. M. Delgado
- Biodiversity Research Institute (IMIB, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)‐University of Oviedo‐Principality of Asturias), Campus Mieres Mieres Spain
| | - I. Kojola
- LUKE, Natural Resources Institute Rovaniemi Finland
| | - S. Heikkinen
- LUKE, Natural Resources Institute Rovaniemi Finland
| | - V. Penteriani
- Biodiversity Research Institute (IMIB, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)‐University of Oviedo‐Principality of Asturias), Campus Mieres Mieres Spain
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Gervasi V, Linnell JD, Berce T, Boitani L, Cerne R, Ciucci P, Cretois B, Derron-Hilfiker D, Duchamp C, Gastineau A, Grente O, Huber D, Iliopoulos Y, Karamanlidis AA, Kojola I, Marucco F, Mertzanis Y, Männil P, Norberg H, Pagon N, Pedrotti L, Quenette PY, Reljic S, Salvatori V, Talvi T, von Arx M, Gimenez O. Ecological correlates of large carnivore depredation on sheep in Europe. Glob Ecol Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Harmoinen J, von Thaden A, Aspi J, Kvist L, Cocchiararo B, Jarausch A, Gazzola A, Sin T, Lohi H, Hytönen MK, Kojola I, Stronen AV, Caniglia R, Mattucci F, Galaverni M, Godinho R, Ruiz-González A, Randi E, Muñoz-Fuentes V, Nowak C. Reliable wolf-dog hybrid detection in Europe using a reduced SNP panel developed for non-invasively collected samples. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:473. [PMID: 34171993 PMCID: PMC8235813 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07761-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding the processes that lead to hybridization of wolves and dogs is of scientific and management importance, particularly over large geographical scales, as wolves can disperse great distances. However, a method to efficiently detect hybrids in routine wolf monitoring is lacking. Microsatellites offer only limited resolution due to the low number of markers showing distinctive allele frequencies between wolves and dogs. Moreover, calibration across laboratories is time-consuming and costly. In this study, we selected a panel of 96 ancestry informative markers for wolves and dogs, derived from the Illumina CanineHD Whole-Genome BeadChip (174 K). We designed very short amplicons for genotyping on a microfluidic array, thus making the method suitable also for non-invasively collected samples. Results Genotypes based on 93 SNPs from wolves sampled throughout Europe, purebred and non-pedigree dogs, and suspected hybrids showed that the new panel accurately identifies parental individuals, first-generation hybrids and first-generation backcrosses to wolves, while second- and third-generation backcrosses to wolves were identified as advanced hybrids in almost all cases. Our results support the hybrid identity of suspect individuals and the non-hybrid status of individuals regarded as wolves. We also show the adequacy of these markers to assess hybridization at a European-wide scale and the importance of including samples from reference populations. Conclusions We showed that the proposed SNP panel is an efficient tool for detecting hybrids up to the third-generation backcrosses to wolves across Europe. Notably, the proposed genotyping method is suitable for a variety of samples, including non-invasive and museum samples, making this panel useful for wolf-dog hybrid assessments and wolf monitoring at both continental and different temporal scales. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07761-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenni Harmoinen
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Alina von Thaden
- Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany.,Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Biologicum, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Laura Kvist
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Berardino Cocchiararo
- Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany.,LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Anne Jarausch
- Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany.,Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Biologicum, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Andrea Gazzola
- Association for the Conservation of Biological Diversity, Focşani, Romania
| | - Teodora Sin
- Association for the Conservation of Biological Diversity, Focşani, Romania.,Department of Systems Ecology and Sustainability, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marjo K Hytönen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Eteläranta 55, FI-96300, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Astrid Vik Stronen
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Insubria University, Varese, Italy
| | - Romolo Caniglia
- Unit for Conservation Genetics (BIO-CGE), Department for the Monitoring and Protection of the Environment and for Biodiversity Conservation, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Mattucci
- Unit for Conservation Genetics (BIO-CGE), Department for the Monitoring and Protection of the Environment and for Biodiversity Conservation, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Raquel Godinho
- CIBIO/InBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661, Vairão, Portugal.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Aritz Ruiz-González
- Unit for Conservation Genetics (BIO-CGE), Department for the Monitoring and Protection of the Environment and for Biodiversity Conservation, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, Zoology Laboratory, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Ettore Randi
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Aalborg, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Violeta Muñoz-Fuentes
- Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany.,European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carsten Nowak
- Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany.,LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Kojola I, Hallikainen V, Heikkinen S, Nivala V. Inadvertent shooting of brown bear cubs in Finland: what can managers do to reduce it? Wildlife Biology 2021. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ilpo Kojola
- I. Kojola ✉ , V. Hallikainen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland. – S. Heikkinen, Natural Resorces Institute Finland (Luke), Oulu, Finland
| | - Ville Hallikainen
- I. Kojola ✉ , V. Hallikainen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland. – S. Heikkinen, Natural Resorces Institute Finland (Luke), Oulu, Finland
| | - Samuli Heikkinen
- I. Kojola ✉ , V. Hallikainen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland. – S. Heikkinen, Natural Resorces Institute Finland (Luke), Oulu, Finland
| | - Vesa Nivala
- I. Kojola ✉ , V. Hallikainen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland. – S. Heikkinen, Natural Resorces Institute Finland (Luke), Oulu, Finland
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Smeds L, Aspi J, Berglund J, Kojola I, Tirronen K, Ellegren H. Whole-genome analyses provide no evidence for dog introgression in Fennoscandian wolf populations. Evol Appl 2021; 14:721-734. [PMID: 33767747 PMCID: PMC7980305 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hybridization and admixture can threaten the genetic integrity of populations and be of particular concern to endangered species. Hybridization between grey wolves and dogs has been documented in many wolf populations worldwide and is a prominent example of human-mediated hybridization between a domesticated species and its wild relative. We analysed whole-genome sequences from >200 wolves and >100 dogs to study admixture in Fennoscandian wolf populations. A principal component analysis of genetic variation and admixture showed that wolves and dogs were well-separated, without evidence for introgression. Analyses of local ancestry revealed that wolves had <1% mixed ancestry, levels comparable to the degree of mixed ancestry in many dogs, and likely not resulting from recent wolf-dog hybridization. We also show that the founders of the Scandinavian wolf population were genetically inseparable from Finnish and Russian Karelian wolves, pointing at the geographical origin of contemporary Scandinavian wolves. Moreover, we found Scandinavian-born animals among wolves sampled in Finland, demonstrating bidirectional gene flow between the Scandinavian Peninsula and eastern countries. The low incidence of admixture between wolves and dogs in Fennoscandia may be explained by the fact that feral dogs are rare in this part of Europe and that careful monitoring and management act to remove hybrids before they backcross into wolf populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnéa Smeds
- Department of Ecology and GeneticsUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Department of Ecology and GeneticsUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
| | - Jonas Berglund
- Department of Ecology and GeneticsUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)RovaniemiFinland
| | - Konstantin Tirronen
- Institute of BiologyKarelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of SciencePetrozavodskRussian Federation
| | - Hans Ellegren
- Department of Ecology and GeneticsUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
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14
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juha Heikkinen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Helsinki Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Rovaniemi Finland
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyrki Pusenius
- J. Pusenius (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0450-7530) ✉ and M. Melin (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7290-9203), Natural Resources Inst. Finland, Yliopistokatu 6, FI-80100 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Tuomas Kukko
- T. Kukko, Natural Resources Institute Finland, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Markus Melin
- J. Pusenius (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0450-7530) ✉ and M. Melin (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7290-9203), Natural Resources Inst. Finland, Yliopistokatu 6, FI-80100 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Sauli Laaksonen
- S. Laaksonen, Dept of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Univ. of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- I. Kojola, Natural Resources Inst. Finland, Rovaniemi, Finland
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16
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Abstract
The threat that wolves (Canis lupus) pose to hunting dogs is one reason why Finnish hunters have negative attitudes towards wolves and one of the potential motivations for the illegal killing of wolves. During 2010–2017, wolves killed an average of 38 dogs (range 24–50) per year in Finland. Most of the attacks (91%) were directed at hunting dogs during the hunting season. To decrease the risk of attacks, the last seven positions (one position per hour) of GPS-collared wolves were accessible to the public with a 5 × 5 km resolution during the hunting seasons (from August 20th to February 28th) of 2013/2014 (from September 2nd onwards), 2015/2016, 2016/2017 and 2017/2018. The link was visited more than 1 million times in 3 of the 4 seasons. Fatal attacks on dogs occurred on 17% of the days during the hunting seasons of our study (n = 760 days). Both the attacks and visits peaked in September–November, which is the primary hunting season in Finland. According to the general linear model, the number of daily visits to the website was higher on days when fatal attacks occurred than on other days. Additionally, season and the number of days passed from the first day of the season were significantly related to the daily visits. Visits were temporally auto-correlated, and the parameter values in the model where the dependent variable was the number of visits on the next day were only slightly different from those in the first model. A two-way interaction between season and attack existed, and the least squares means were significantly different in 2017/2018. The change in daily visits between consecutive days was related only to the number of days from the beginning of the season. We examined whether this kind of service decreased dog attacks by wolves. Wolf attacks were recorded in 32% of the wolf territories, where at least one wolf had been collared (n = 22). However, within the territories without any GPS-collared wolves, the proportion of territories with wolf attack(s) was significantly higher than those elsewhere (50%, n = 48). Although public information decreased the risk of attacks, it did not completely protect dogs from wolf attacks and may in some cases increase the risk of illegally killing wolves. The most remarkable benefit of this kind of service to the conservation of the wolf population might be the message to the public that management is not overlooking hunters’ concerns about wolf attacks on their dogs.
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17
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Barry T, Gurarie E, Cheraghi F, Kojola I, Fagan WF. Does dispersal make the heart grow bolder? Avoidance of anthropogenic habitat elements across wolf life history. Anim Behav 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2020.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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18
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Kojola I, Hallikainen V, Heikkinen S, Nivala V. Has the sex-specific structure of Finland's brown bear population changed during 21 years? Wildlife Biology 2020. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ville Hallikainen
- V. Hallikainen, S. Heikkinen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute (Luke), Box 16, FI-96301 Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Samuli Heikkinen
- V. Hallikainen, S. Heikkinen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute (Luke), Box 16, FI-96301 Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Vesa Nivala
- V. Hallikainen, S. Heikkinen and V. Nivala, Natural Resources Institute (Luke), Box 16, FI-96301 Rovaniemi, Finland
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19
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Lansink GMJ, Esparza-Salas R, Joensuu M, Koskela A, Bujnáková D, Kleven O, Flagstad Ø, Ollila T, Kojola I, Aspi J, Kvist L. Population genetics of the wolverine in Finland: the road to recovery? CONSERV GENET 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-020-01264-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAfter decades, even centuries of persecution, large carnivore populations are widely recovering in Europe. Considering the recent recovery of the wolverine (Gulo gulo) in Finland, our aim was to evaluate genetic variation using 14 microsatellites and mtDNA control region (579 bp) in order (1) to determine whether the species is represented by a single genetic population within Finland, (2) to quantify the genetic diversity, and (3) to estimate the effective population size. We found two major genetic clusters divided between eastern and northern Finland based on microsatellites (FST = 0.100) but also a significant pattern of isolation by distance. Wolverines in western Finland had a genetic signature similar to the northern cluster, which can be explained by former translocations of wolverines from northern to western Finland. For both main clusters, most estimates of the effective population size Ne were below 50. Nevertheless, the genetic diversity was higher in the eastern cluster (HE = 0.57, AR = 4.0, AP = 0.3) than in the northern cluster (HE = 0.49, AR = 3.7, AP = 0.1). Migration between the clusters was low. Two mtDNA haplotypes were found: one common and identical to Scandinavian wolverines; the other rare and not previously detected. The rare haplotype was more prominent in the eastern genetic cluster. Combining all available data, we infer that the genetic population structure within Finland is shaped by a recent bottleneck, isolation by distance, human-aided translocations and postglacial recolonization routes.
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20
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Abstract
Analyses of Y chromosome haplotypes uniquely provide a paternal picture of evolutionary histories and offer a very useful contrast to studies based on maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Here we used a bioinformatic approach based on comparison of male and female sequence coverage to identify 4.7 Mb from the grey wolf (Canis lupis) Y chromosome, probably representing most of the male-specific, nonampliconic sequence from the euchromatic part of the chromosome. We characterized this sequence and then identified ≈1,500 Y-linked single nucleotide polymorphisms in a sample of 145 resequenced male wolves, including 75 Finnish wolf genomes newly sequenced in this study, and in 24 dogs and eight other canids. We found 53 Y chromosome haplotypes, of which 26 were seen in grey wolves, that clustered in four major haplogroups. All four haplogroups were represented in samples of Finnish wolves, showing that haplogroup lineages were not partitioned on a continental scale. However, regional population structure was indicated because individual haplotypes were never shared between geographically distant areas, and genetically similar haplotypes were only found within the same geographical region. The deepest split between grey wolf haplogroups was estimated to have occurred 125,000 years ago, which is considerably older than recent estimates of the time of divergence of wolf populations. The distribution of dogs in a phylogenetic tree of Y chromosome haplotypes supports multiple domestication events, or wolf paternal introgression, starting 29,000 years ago. We also addressed the disputed origin of a recently founded population of Scandinavian wolves and observed that founding as well as most recent immigrant haplotypes were present in the neighbouring Finnish population, but not in sequenced wolves from elsewhere in the world, or in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnéa Smeds
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Hans Ellegren
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Kojola I, Heikkinen S, Holmala K. Correction to: Balancing costs and confidence: volunteer-provided point observations, GPS telemetry and the genetic monitoring of Finland’s wolves. MAMMAL RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-018-0379-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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22
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Kojola I, Heikkinen S, Holmala K. Balancing costs and confidence: volunteer-provided point observations, GPS telemetry and the genetic monitoring of Finland’s wolves. MAMMAL RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-018-0371-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Abstract
Background One of the classic approaches in environmental economics is the environmental Kuznets curve, which predicts that when a national economy grows from low to medium levels, threats to biodiversity conservation increase, but they decrease when the economy moves from medium to high. We evaluated this approach by examining how population densities of the brown bear (Ursus arctos), gray wolf (Canis lupus), and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) were related to the national economy in 24 European countries. Methodology/Principal findings We used forest proportions, the existence of a compensation system, and country group (former socialist countries, Nordic countries, other countries) as covariates in a linear model with the first- and the second-order polynomial terms of per capita gross domestic product (GDP). Country group was treated as a random factor, but remained insignificant and was ignored. All models concerning brown bear and wolf provided evidence that population densities decreased with increasing GDP, but densities of lynx were virtually independent of GDP. Models for the wolf explained >80% of the variation in densities, without a difference between the models with all independent variables and the model with only GDP. For the bear, the model with GDP alone accounted for 10%, and all three variables 33%, of the variation in densities. Conclusions Wolves exhibit a higher capacity for dispersal and reproduction than bear or lynx, but still exists at the lowest densities in wealthy European countries. We are aware that several other factors, not available for our models, influenced large carnivore densities. Based on the pronounced differences among large carnivore species in their countrywide relationships between densities and GDP, and a strikingly high relationship for the gray wolf, we suggest that our results reflected differences in political history and public acceptance of these species among countries. The compensation paid for the damages caused by the carnivores is not a key to higher carnivore densities, but might be necessity for the presence of large carnivores to be accepted in countries with high GDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Jon E. Swenson
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resources Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Norway, and Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Trondheim, Norway
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24
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Affiliation(s)
| | - I. Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland; Rovaniemi Finland
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25
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Granroth-Wilding H, Primmer C, Lindqvist M, Poutanen J, Thalmann O, Aspi J, Harmoinen J, Kojola I, Laaksonen T. Non-invasive genetic monitoring involving citizen science enables reconstruction of current pack dynamics in a re-establishing wolf population. BMC Ecol 2017; 17:44. [PMID: 29258497 PMCID: PMC5738207 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-017-0154-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Carnivores are re-establishing in many human-populated areas, where their presence is often contentious. Reaching consensus on management decisions is often hampered by a dispute over the size of the local carnivore population. Understanding the reproductive dynamics and individual movements of the carnivores can provide support for management decisions, but individual-level information can be difficult to obtain from elusive, wide-ranging species. Non-invasive genetic sampling can yield such information, but makes subsequent reconstruction of population history challenging due to incomplete population coverage and error-prone data. Here, we combine a collaborative, volunteer-based sampling scheme with Bayesian pedigree reconstruction to describe the pack dynamics of an establishing grey wolf (Canis lupus) population in south-west Finland, where wolf breeding was recorded in 2006 for the first time in over a century. Results Using DNA extracted mainly from faeces collected since 2008, we identified 81 individual wolves and assigned credible full parentages to 70 of these and partial parentages to a further 9, revealing 7 breeding pairs. Individuals used a range of strategies to obtain breeding opportunities, including dispersal to established or new packs, long-distance migration and inheriting breeding roles. Gene flow occurred between all packs but inbreeding events were rare. Conclusions These findings demonstrate that characterizing ongoing pack dynamics can provide detailed, locally-relevant insight into the ecology of contentious species such as the wolf. Involving various stakeholders in data collection makes these results more likely to be accepted as unbiased and hence reliable grounds for management decisions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12898-017-0154-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Granroth-Wilding
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. .,Ecology & Evolution Division, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Craig Primmer
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Biosciences & Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Meri Lindqvist
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Biosciences & Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Poutanen
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Olaf Thalmann
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jenni Harmoinen
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute (Luke), Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Toni Laaksonen
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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26
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Kopatz A, Eiken HG, Schregel J, Aspi J, Kojola I, Hagen SB. Genetic substructure and admixture as important factors in linkage disequilibrium-based estimation of effective number of breeders in recovering wildlife populations. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:10721-10732. [PMID: 29299252 PMCID: PMC5743533 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of effective breeders (Nb ) and effective population size (Ne ) are population parameters reflective of evolutionary potential, susceptibility to stochasticity, and viability. We have estimated these parameters using the linkage disequilibrium-based approach with LDNE through the latest phase of population recovery of the brown bears (Ursus arctos) in Finland (1993-2010; N = 621). This phase of the recovery was recently documented to be associated with major changes in genetic composition. In particular, differentiation between the northern and the southern genetic cluster declined rapidly within 1.5 generations. Based on this, we have studied effects of the changing genetic structure on Nb and Ne , by comparing estimates for whole Finland with the estimates for the two genetic clusters. We expected a potentially strong relationship between estimate sizes and genetic differentiation, which should disappear as the population recovers and clusters merge. Consistent with this, our estimates for whole Finland were lower than the sum of the estimates of the two genetic clusters and both approaches produced similar estimates in the end. Notably, we also found that admixed genotypes strongly increased the estimates. In all analyses, our estimates for Ne were larger than Nb and likely reflective for brown bears of the larger region of Finland and northwestern Russia. Conclusively, we find that neglecting genetic substructure may lead to a massive underestimation of Nb and Ne . Our results also suggest the need for further empirical analysis focusing on individuals with admixed genotypes and their potential high influence on Nb and Ne .
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hans Geir Eiken
- NIBIO—Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchSvanvikNorway
| | - Julia Schregel
- NIBIO—Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchSvanvikNorway
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Department of BiologyUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)RovaniemiFinland
| | - Snorre B. Hagen
- NIBIO—Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchSvanvikNorway
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27
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Kojola I, Eloranta E. INFLUENCES OF MATERNAL BODY WEIGHT, AGE, AND PARITY ON SEX RATIO IN SEMIDOMESTICATED REINDEER (RANGIFER T. TARANDUS). Evolution 2017; 43:1331-1336. [PMID: 28564498 DOI: 10.1111/j.1558-5646.1989.tb02582.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/1987] [Accepted: 12/25/1988] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ilpo Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Game Division, Meltaus Game Research Station, SF-97310, Patokoski, FINLAND
| | - Eija Eloranta
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Game Division, Meltaus Game Research Station, SF-97310, Patokoski, FINLAND
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28
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Kojola I, Holmala K, Huhta E, Oksanen A, Kokko S. Prevalence of
Trichinella
infection in three sympatric large carnivores: effects of the host's sex and age. J Zool (1987) 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Rovaniemi Finland
| | - K. Holmala
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Vantaa Finland
| | - E. Huhta
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Rovaniemi Finland
| | - A. Oksanen
- Finnish Food Safe Authority Evira (FINPAR) Oulu Finland
| | - S. Kokko
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) University of Oulu Oulu Finland
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29
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Hagen SB, Kopatz A, Aspi J, Kojola I, Eiken HG. Evidence of rapid change in genetic structure and diversity during range expansion in a recovering large terrestrial carnivore. Proc Biol Sci 2016; 282:20150092. [PMID: 25904665 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recovery of natural populations occurs often with simultaneous or subsequent range expansions. According to population genetic theory, genetic structuring emerges at the expansion front together with decreasing genetic diversity, owing to multiple founder events. Thereupon, as the expansion proceeds and connectivity among populations is established, homogenization and a resurgence of genetic diversity are to be expected. Few studies have used a fine temporal scale combined with genetic sampling to track range expansions as they proceed in wild animal populations. As a natural experiment, the historical eradication of large terrestrial carnivores followed by their recovery and recolonization may facilitate empirical tests of these ideas. Here, using brown bear (Ursus arctos) as model species, we tested predictions from genetic theory of range expansion. Individuals from all over Finland were genotyped for every year between 1996 and 2010 using 12 validated autosomal microsatellite markers. A latitudinal shift of about 110 km was observed in the distribution and delineation of genetic clusters during this period. As the range expansion proceeded, we found, as theory predicts, that the degree of genetic structure decreased, and that both genetic variation and admixture increased. The genetic consequences of range expansions may first be detected after multiple generations, but we found major changes in genetic composition after just 1.5 generations, accompanied by population growth and increased migration. These rapid genetic changes suggest an ongoing concerted action of geographical and demographic expansion combined with substantial immigration of bears from Russia during the recovery of brown bears within the large ecosystem of northern Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snorre B Hagen
- Bioforsk-Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, 9925 Svanvik, Norway
| | - Alexander Kopatz
- Bioforsk-Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, 9925 Svanvik, Norway
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Department of Biology, University of Oulu, PO Box 3000, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Luke-Natural Resources Institute, Viikinkaari 4, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hans Geir Eiken
- Bioforsk-Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, 9925 Svanvik, Norway
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30
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Penteriani V, Delgado MDM, Pinchera F, Naves J, Fernández-Gil A, Kojola I, Härkönen S, Norberg H, Frank J, Fedriani JM, Sahlén V, Støen OG, Swenson JE, Wabakken P, Pellegrini M, Herrero S, López-Bao JV. Human behaviour can trigger large carnivore attacks in developed countries. Sci Rep 2016; 6:20552. [PMID: 26838467 PMCID: PMC4738333 DOI: 10.1038/srep20552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The media and scientific literature are increasingly reporting an escalation of large carnivore attacks on humans in North America and Europe. Although rare compared to human fatalities by other wildlife, the media often overplay large carnivore attacks on humans, causing increased fear and negative attitudes towards coexisting with and conserving these species. Although large carnivore populations are generally increasing in developed countries, increased numbers are not solely responsible for the observed rise in the number of attacks by large carnivores. Here we show that an increasing number of people are involved in outdoor activities and, when doing so, some people engage in risk-enhancing behaviour that can increase the probability of a risky encounter and a potential attack. About half of the well-documented reported attacks have involved risk-enhancing human behaviours, the most common of which is leaving children unattended. Our study provides unique insight into the causes, and as a result the prevention, of large carnivore attacks on people. Prevention and information that can encourage appropriate human behaviour when sharing the landscape with large carnivores are of paramount importance to reduce both potentially fatal human-carnivore encounters and their consequences to large carnivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Penteriani
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain.,Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University-Campus Mieres, 33600 Mieres, Spain
| | - María Del Mar Delgado
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University-Campus Mieres, 33600 Mieres, Spain.,Metapopulation Research Centre, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Javier Naves
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain
| | - Alberto Fernández-Gil
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, P.O. Box 16, FI-96301 Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Sauli Härkönen
- Finnish Wildlife Agency, Sompiontie 1, FI-00730 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Harri Norberg
- Finnish Wildlife Agency, Sompiontie 1, FI-00730 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jens Frank
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden
| | - José María Fedriani
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain.,Centre for Applied Ecology "Prof. Baeta Neves", Institute Superior of Agronomy, University of Lisbon, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Veronica Sahlén
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Postbox 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway.,The Norwegian Environment Agency, P.O. Box 5672 Sluppen, N-7485 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ole-Gunnar Støen
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Postbox 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Jon E Swenson
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Postbox 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway.,The Norwegian Environment Agency, P.O. Box 5672 Sluppen, N-7485 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Petter Wabakken
- Faculty of Applied Ecology and Agricultural Sciences, Hedmark University College, Evenstad, NO-2480, Koppang, Norway
| | | | - Stephen Herrero
- Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2T 2Y2
| | - José Vicente López-Bao
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University-Campus Mieres, 33600 Mieres, Spain.,Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden
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Schregel J, Eiken HG, Grøndahl FA, Hailer F, Aspi J, Kojola I, Tirronen K, Danilov P, Rykov A, Poroshin E, Janke A, Swenson JE, Hagen SB. Y chromosome haplotype distribution of brown bears (Ursus arctos
) in Northern Europe provides insight into population history and recovery. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:6041-60. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 10/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Schregel
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research; NIBIO - Svanhovd; 9925 Svanvik Norway
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management; Norwegian University of Life Sciences; 1432 Ås Norway
| | - Hans Geir Eiken
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research; NIBIO - Svanhovd; 9925 Svanvik Norway
| | | | - Frank Hailer
- School of Biosciences; Cardiff University; Cardiff CF10 3AX Wales UK
- Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F); Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung; Senckenberganlage 25 60325 Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Department of Genetics and Physiology; University of Oulu; P.O. Box 3000 90014 Oulu Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute; P.O. Box 16 96301 Rovaniemi Finland
| | - Konstantin Tirronen
- Institute of Biology; Karelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Science; 185910 Petrozavodsk Russian Federation
| | - Piotr Danilov
- Institute of Biology; Karelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Science; 185910 Petrozavodsk Russian Federation
| | - Alexander Rykov
- Pinezhsky Strict Nature Reserve; Pervomayskaja 123a 164610 Pinega Russian Federation
| | - Eugene Poroshin
- Institute of Biology; Komi Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Science; 016761 Syktvkar Russian Federation
| | - Axel Janke
- Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F); Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung; Senckenberganlage 25 60325 Frankfurt am Main Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt; Institute for Ecology; Evolution & Diversity; 60438 Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Jon E. Swenson
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management; Norwegian University of Life Sciences; 1432 Ås Norway
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research; 7485 Trondheim Norway
| | - Snorre B. Hagen
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research; NIBIO - Svanhovd; 9925 Svanvik Norway
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Stronen AV, Jędrzejewska B, Pertoldi C, Demontis D, Randi E, Niedziałkowska M, Borowik T, Sidorovich VE, Kusak J, Kojola I, Karamanlidis AA, Ozolins J, Dumenko V, Czarnomska SD. Genome-wide analyses suggest parallel selection for universal traits may eclipse local environmental selection in a highly mobile carnivore. Ecol Evol 2015; 5:4410-25. [PMID: 26664688 PMCID: PMC4667828 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ecological and environmental heterogeneity can produce genetic differentiation in highly mobile species. Accordingly, local adaptation may be expected across comparatively short distances in the presence of marked environmental gradients. Within the European continent, wolves (Canis lupus) exhibit distinct north–south population differentiation. We investigated more than 67‐K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci for signatures of local adaptation in 59 unrelated wolves from four previously identified population clusters (northcentral Europe n = 32, Carpathian Mountains n = 7, Dinaric‐Balkan n = 9, Ukrainian Steppe n = 11). Our analyses combined identification of outlier loci with findings from genome‐wide association study of individual genomic profiles and 12 environmental variables. We identified 353 candidate SNP loci. We examined the SNP position and neighboring megabase (1 Mb, one million bases) regions in the dog (C. lupus familiaris) genome for genes potentially under selection, including homologue genes in other vertebrates. These regions included functional genes for, for example, temperature regulation that may indicate local adaptation and genes controlling for functions universally important for wolves, including olfaction, hearing, vision, and cognitive functions. We also observed strong outliers not associated with any of the investigated variables, which could suggest selective pressures associated with other unmeasured environmental variables and/or demographic factors. These patterns are further supported by the examination of spatial distributions of the SNPs associated with universally important traits, which typically show marked differences in allele frequencies among population clusters. Accordingly, parallel selection for features important to all wolves may eclipse local environmental selection and implies long‐term separation among population clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Vik Stronen
- Section of Biology and Environmental Science Department of Chemistry and Bioscience Aalborg University Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H DK-9220 Aalborg Øst Denmark ; Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Waszkiewicza 1 PL 17-230 Bialowieza Poland
| | - Bogumiła Jędrzejewska
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Waszkiewicza 1 PL 17-230 Bialowieza Poland
| | - Cino Pertoldi
- Section of Biology and Environmental Science Department of Chemistry and Bioscience Aalborg University Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H DK-9220 Aalborg Øst Denmark ; Aalborg Zoo Mølleparkvej 63 DK-9000 Aalborg Denmark
| | - Ditte Demontis
- Department of Human Genetics University of Aarhus Wilhelm Meyers Allé DK-8000 Aarhus Denmark
| | - Ettore Randi
- Section of Biology and Environmental Science Department of Chemistry and Bioscience Aalborg University Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H DK-9220 Aalborg Øst Denmark ; Laboratorio di Genetica ISPRA via Cà Fornacetta 9 I-40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO) Italy
| | - Magdalena Niedziałkowska
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Waszkiewicza 1 PL 17-230 Bialowieza Poland
| | - Tomasz Borowik
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Waszkiewicza 1 PL 17-230 Bialowieza Poland
| | - Vadim E Sidorovich
- Institute of Zoology Scientific and Practical Centre for Biological Resources National Academy of Science of Belarus Akademicheskaya Str 27 220072 Minsk Belarus
| | - Josip Kusak
- Department of Biology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Zagreb Zagreb Croatia
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Finland Box 16 FI-96500 Rovaniemi Finland
| | - Alexandros A Karamanlidis
- ARCTUROS Civil Society for the Protection and Management of Wildlife and the Natural Environment GR-53075 Aetos Greece ; Department of Ecology and Natural Resources Management Norwegian University of Life Sciences NO-1432 Ås Norway
| | - Janis Ozolins
- Latvian State Forest Research Institute "Silava" Rīgas 111 LV-2169 Salaspils Latvia
| | - Vitalii Dumenko
- Biosphere Reserve Askania Nova Frunze Str. 13 Askania-Nova Chaplynka District Kherson Region 75230 Ukraine
| | - Sylwia D Czarnomska
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences ul. Waszkiewicza 1 PL 17-230 Bialowieza Poland
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Gurarie E, Bracis C, Delgado M, Meckley TD, Kojola I, Wagner CM. What is the animal doing? Tools for exploring behavioural structure in animal movements. J Anim Ecol 2015; 85:69-84. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eliezer Gurarie
- Department of Biology University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences University of Washington Seattle WA 98195 USA
| | - Chloe Bracis
- Quantitative Ecology and Resource Management University of Washington Seattle WA 98195 USA
| | - Maria Delgado
- Department of Biosciences University of Helsinki 00014Helsinki Finland
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO‐CSIC‐PA) Oviedo University – Campus Mieres 33600Mieres Spain
| | - Trevor D. Meckley
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Michigan State University East Lansing MI 48824 USA
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Natural Resources Institute Box 16 FI‐96301Rovaniemi Finland
| | - C. Michael Wagner
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Michigan State University East Lansing MI 48824 USA
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Chapron G, Kaczensky P, Linnell JDC, von Arx M, Huber D, Andrén H, López-Bao JV, Adamec M, Álvares F, Anders O, Balčiauskas L, Balys V, Bedő P, Bego F, Blanco JC, Breitenmoser U, Brøseth H, Bufka L, Bunikyte R, Ciucci P, Dutsov A, Engleder T, Fuxjäger C, Groff C, Holmala K, Hoxha B, Iliopoulos Y, Ionescu O, Jeremić J, Jerina K, Kluth G, Knauer F, Kojola I, Kos I, Krofel M, Kubala J, Kunovac S, Kusak J, Kutal M, Liberg O, Majić A, Männil P, Manz R, Marboutin E, Marucco F, Melovski D, Mersini K, Mertzanis Y, Mysłajek RW, Nowak S, Odden J, Ozolins J, Palomero G, Paunović M, Persson J, Potočnik H, Quenette PY, Rauer G, Reinhardt I, Rigg R, Ryser A, Salvatori V, Skrbinšek T, Stojanov A, Swenson JE, Szemethy L, Trajçe A, Tsingarska-Sedefcheva E, Váňa M, Veeroja R, Wabakken P, Wölfl M, Wölfl S, Zimmermann F, Zlatanova D, Boitani L. Recovery of large carnivores in Europe's modern human-dominated landscapes. Science 2015; 346:1517-9. [PMID: 25525247 DOI: 10.1126/science.1257553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 808] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The conservation of large carnivores is a formidable challenge for biodiversity conservation. Using a data set on the past and current status of brown bears (Ursus arctos), Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), gray wolves (Canis lupus), and wolverines (Gulo gulo) in European countries, we show that roughly one-third of mainland Europe hosts at least one large carnivore species, with stable or increasing abundance in most cases in 21st-century records. The reasons for this overall conservation success include protective legislation, supportive public opinion, and a variety of practices making coexistence between large carnivores and people possible. The European situation reveals that large carnivores and people can share the same landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Chapron
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden.
| | - Petra Kaczensky
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Savoyenstrasse 1, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - John D C Linnell
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Post Office Box 5685 Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Djuro Huber
- Biology Department of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Henrik Andrén
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden
| | - José Vicente López-Bao
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden. Research Unit of Biodiversity (UO/CSIC/PA), Oviedo University, 33600 Mieres, Spain
| | - Michal Adamec
- State Nature Conservancy of Slovak Republic, Tajovskeho 28B, 974 01 Banská Bystrica, Slovakia
| | - Francisco Álvares
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Ole Anders
- Harz Nationalpark, Lindenallee 35, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany
| | | | - Vaidas Balys
- Association for Nature Conservation "Baltijos vilkas," Visoriu 6A-54, 08300 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Péter Bedő
- Slovak Wildlife Society, Post Office Box 72, 03301 Liptovsky Hradok, Slovakia
| | - Ferdinand Bego
- Biology Department of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana, Boulevard Zog I, Tirana, Albania
| | - Juan Carlos Blanco
- Wolf Project, Consultores en Biología de la Conservación, Calle Manuela Malasana 24, 28004 Madrid, Spain
| | - Urs Breitenmoser
- KORA, Thunstrasse 31, 3074 Muri bei Bern, Switzerland. Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Henrik Brøseth
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Post Office Box 5685 Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Luděk Bufka
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Raimonda Bunikyte
- Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania, Jakšto 4/9, 01105 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Paolo Ciucci
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "La Sapienza," Viale dell'Università 32, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Alexander Dutsov
- Balkani Wildlife Society, Boulevard Dragan Tzankov 8, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Thomas Engleder
- Lynx Project Austria Northwest, Linzerstrasse 14, 4170 Haslach/Mühl, Austria
| | - Christian Fuxjäger
- Nationalpark Kalkalpen, Nationalpark Zentrum Molln, Nationalpark Allee 1, 4591 Molln, Austria
| | - Claudio Groff
- Provincia Autonoma di Trento - Servizio Foreste e Fauna, Via Trener no. 3, 38100 Trento, Italy
| | - Katja Holmala
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Viikinkaari 4, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Bledi Hoxha
- Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania, Rruga Vangjush Furxhi 16/1/10, Tirana, Albania
| | - Yorgos Iliopoulos
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society, Mitropoleos 123, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ovidiu Ionescu
- Faculty of Silviculture and Forest Engineering, Department of Silviculture, Transilvania University, 1 Beethoven Lane, 500123 Brașov, Romania. Forest Research Institute (ICAS) Bulevardul Eroilor Number 128, Voluntari, Ilfov, 077190 Romania
| | - Jasna Jeremić
- State Institute for Nature Protection, Trg Mažuranića 5, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Klemen Jerina
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gesa Kluth
- LUPUS - German Institute for Wolf Mnitoring and Research, Dorfstrasse 20, 02979 Spreewitz, Germany
| | - Felix Knauer
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Savoyenstrasse 1, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Oulu Game and Fisheries Research, Tutkijantie 2E, 90570 Oulu, Finland
| | - Ivan Kos
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miha Krofel
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jakub Kubala
- Department of Forest Protection and Game Management, Faculty of Forestry, Technical University of Zvolen, T.G. Masaryka 20, 960 53 Zvolen, Slovakia
| | - Saša Kunovac
- Faculty of Forestry, University of Sarajevo, Zagrebačka 20, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Josip Kusak
- Biology Department of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Miroslav Kutal
- Department of Forest Protection and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 3, 61300 Brno, Czech Republic. Friends of the Earth Czech Republic, Olomouc Branch, Dolní Náměstí 38, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Olof Liberg
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden
| | - Aleksandra Majić
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Peep Männil
- Estonian Environment Agency, Rõõmu tee 2, 51013 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ralph Manz
- KORA, Thunstrasse 31, 3074 Muri bei Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eric Marboutin
- Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, ZI Mayencin, 5 Allée de Béthléem, 38610 Gières, France
| | - Francesca Marucco
- Centro Gestione e Conservazione Grandi Carnivori, Piazza Regina Elena 30, Valdieri 12010, Italy
| | - Dime Melovski
- Macedonian Ecological Society, Arhimedova 5, Skopje 1000, FYR Macedonia. Department of Wildlife Sciences, Georg-August University, Büsgenweg 3, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kujtim Mersini
- National Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Food Safety and Veterinary Institute, Rruga Aleksandër Moisiu 10 Tirana, Albania
| | - Yorgos Mertzanis
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society, Mitropoleos 123, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Robert W Mysłajek
- Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Pawińskiego 5a, 02-106 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Sabina Nowak
- Association for Nature "Wolf," Twardorzeczka 229, 34-324 Lipowa, Poland
| | - John Odden
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Post Office Box 5685 Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Janis Ozolins
- Latvian State Forest Research Institute "Silava," Rīgas Iela 111, Salaspils, 2169 Latvia
| | | | - Milan Paunović
- Natural History Museum, Njegoseva 51, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jens Persson
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 73091 Riddarhyttan, Sweden
| | - Hubert Potočnik
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Pierre-Yves Quenette
- ONCFS-CNERA PAD, Equipe Ours, Chef de Projet, Impasse de la Chapelle, 31800 Villeneuve de Rivière, France
| | - Georg Rauer
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Savoyenstrasse 1, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ilka Reinhardt
- LUPUS - German Institute for Wolf Mnitoring and Research, Dorfstrasse 20, 02979 Spreewitz, Germany
| | - Robin Rigg
- Slovak Wildlife Society, Post Office Box 72, 03301 Liptovsky Hradok, Slovakia
| | - Andreas Ryser
- KORA, Thunstrasse 31, 3074 Muri bei Bern, Switzerland
| | - Valeria Salvatori
- Istituto di Ecologia Applicata, Via B. Eustachio 10, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Tomaž Skrbinšek
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Jon E Swenson
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Post Office Box 5685 Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway. Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Postbox 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - László Szemethy
- St. István Unversity Institute for Wildlife Conservation, Páter Károly 1, 2103 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Aleksandër Trajçe
- Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania, Rruga Vangjush Furxhi 16/1/10, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Martin Váňa
- Friends of the Earth Czech Republic, Olomouc Branch, Dolní Náměstí 38, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Rauno Veeroja
- Estonian Environment Agency, Rõõmu tee 2, 51013 Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Manfred Wölfl
- Bavarian Agency of Environment, Hans-Högn-Strasse 12, 95030 Hof/Saale, Germany
| | - Sybille Wölfl
- Lynx Project Bavaria, Trailling 1a, 93462 Lam, Germany
| | | | - Diana Zlatanova
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Biology/Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski," Boulevard Dragan Tzankov 8, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Luigi Boitani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "La Sapienza," Viale dell'Università 32, 00185 Roma, Italy
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Ratkiewicz M, Matosiuk M, Saveljev AP, Sidorovich V, Ozolins J, Männil P, Balciauskas L, Kojola I, Okarma H, Kowalczyk R, Schmidt K. Long-range gene flow and the effects of climatic and ecological factors on genetic structuring in a large, solitary carnivore: the Eurasian lynx. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115160. [PMID: 25551216 PMCID: PMC4281111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their high mobility, large terrestrial predators are potentially capable of maintaining high connectivity, and therefore low genetic differentiation among populations. However, previous molecular studies have provided contradictory findings in relation to this. To elucidate patterns of genetic structure in large carnivores, we studied the genetic variability of the Eurasian lynx, Lynx lynx throughout north-eastern Europe using microsatellite, mitochondrial DNA control region and Y chromosome-linked markers. Using SAMOVA we found analogous patterns of genetic structure based on both mtDNA and microsatellites, which coincided with a relatively little evidence for male-biased dispersal. No polymorphism for the cytochrome b and ATP6 mtDNA genes and Y chromosome-linked markers were found. Lynx inhabiting a large area encompassing Finland, the Baltic countries and western Russia formed a single genetic unit, while some marginal populations were clearly divergent from others. The existence of a migration corridor was suggested to correspond with distribution of continuous forest cover. The lowest variability (in both markers) was found in lynx from Norway and Białowieża Primeval Forest (BPF), which coincided with a recent demographic bottleneck (Norway) or high habitat fragmentation (BPF). The Carpathian population, being monomorphic for the control region, showed relatively high microsatellite diversity, suggesting the effect of a past bottleneck (e.g. during Last Glacial Maximum) on its present genetic composition. Genetic structuring for the mtDNA control region was best explained by latitude and snow cover depth. Microsatellite structuring correlated with the lynx's main prey, especially the proportion of red deer (Cervus elaphus) in its diet. Eurasian lynx are capable of maintaining panmictic populations across eastern Europe unless they are severely limited by habitat continuity or a reduction in numbers. Different correlations of mtDNA and microsatellite population divergence patterns with climatic and ecological factors may suggest separate selective pressures acting on males and females in this solitary carnivore.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maciej Matosiuk
- Institute of Biology, University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Alexander P. Saveljev
- B. M. Zhitkov Russian Research Institute of Game Management and Fur Farming, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kirov, Russia
| | - Vadim Sidorovich
- Centre for Biological Resources (former Institute of Zoology) of National Academy of Sciences, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Janis Ozolins
- Latvian State Forest Research Institute “Silava”, Salaspils, Latvia
| | | | | | - Ilpo Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Oulu Game and Fisheries Research, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Henryk Okarma
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Rafał Kowalczyk
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Białowieża, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Schmidt
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Białowieża, Poland
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Kojola I, Helle P, Heikkinen S, Lindén H, Paasivaara A, Wikman M. Tracks in snow and population size estimation: the wolfCanis lupusin Finland. Wildlife Biology 2014. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Kopatz A, Eiken HG, Aspi J, Kojola I, Tobiassen C, Tirronen KF, Danilov PI, Hagen SB. Admixture and gene flow from Russia in the recovering Northern European brown bear (Ursus arctos). PLoS One 2014; 9:e97558. [PMID: 24839968 PMCID: PMC4026324 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Large carnivores were persecuted to near extinction during the last centuries, but have now recovered in some countries. It has been proposed earlier that the recovery of the Northern European brown bear is supported by migration from Russia. We tested this hypothesis by obtaining for the first time continuous sampling of the whole Finnish bear population, which is located centrally between the Russian and Scandinavian bear populations. The Finnish population is assumed to experience high gene flow from Russian Karelia. If so, no or a low degree of genetic differentiation between Finnish and Russian bears could be expected. We have genotyped bears extensively from all over Finland using 12 validated microsatellite markers and compared their genetic composition to bears from Russian Karelia, Sweden, and Norway. Our fine masked investigation identified two overlapping genetic clusters structured by isolation-by-distance in Finland (pairwise FST = 0.025). One cluster included Russian bears, and migration analyses showed a high number of migrants from Russia into Finland, providing evidence of eastern gene flow as an important driver during recovery. In comparison, both clusters excluded bears from Sweden and Norway, and we found no migrants from Finland in either country, indicating that eastern gene flow was probably not important for the population recovery in Scandinavia. Our analyses on different spatial scales suggest a continuous bear population in Finland and Russian Karelia, separated from Scandinavia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Kopatz
- Bioforsk - Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, Svanvik, Norway
- * E-mail: (AK); (SBH)
| | - Hans Geir Eiken
- Bioforsk - Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, Svanvik, Norway
| | - Jouni Aspi
- Department of Biology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ilpo Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Oulu, Finland
| | - Camilla Tobiassen
- Bioforsk - Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, Svanvik, Norway
| | - Konstantin F. Tirronen
- Institute of Biology, Karelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Science, Petrozavodsk, Russia
| | - Pjotr I. Danilov
- Institute of Biology, Karelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Science, Petrozavodsk, Russia
| | - Snorre B. Hagen
- Bioforsk - Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, Svanvik, Norway
- * E-mail: (AK); (SBH)
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Niskanen AK, Kennedy LJ, Ruokonen M, Kojola I, Lohi H, Isomursu M, Jansson E, Pyhäjärvi T, Aspi J. Balancing selection and heterozygote advantage in major histocompatibility complex loci of the bottlenecked Finnish wolf population. Mol Ecol 2014; 23:875-89. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A. K. Niskanen
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000 FI-90014 Oulu Finland
| | - L. J. Kennedy
- Centre for Integrated Genomic Medical Research; University of Manchester; Stopford Building Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PT UK
| | - M. Ruokonen
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000 FI-90014 Oulu Finland
| | - I. Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute; Paavo Havaksen tie 3 PO Box 413 FI-90014 Oulu Finland
| | - H. Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences; Research Programs Unit; Molecular Neurology; Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics; Biomedicum Helsinki; University of Helsinki; PO Box 63 FI-00014 Helsinki Finland
| | - M. Isomursu
- Fish and Wildlife Health Research Unit; Finnish Food Safety Authority Evira; PO Box 517 FI-90101 Oulu Finland
| | - E. Jansson
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000 FI-90014 Oulu Finland
| | - T. Pyhäjärvi
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000 FI-90014 Oulu Finland
| | - J. Aspi
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000 FI-90014 Oulu Finland
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41
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Stronen AV, Jędrzejewska B, Pertoldi C, Demontis D, Randi E, Niedziałkowska M, Pilot M, Sidorovich VE, Dykyy I, Kusak J, Tsingarska E, Kojola I, Karamanlidis AA, Ornicans A, Lobkov VA, Dumenko V, Czarnomska SD. North-South differentiation and a region of high diversity in European wolves (Canis lupus). PLoS One 2013; 8:e76454. [PMID: 24146871 PMCID: PMC3795770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
European wolves (Canis lupus) show population genetic structure in the absence of geographic barriers, and across relatively short distances for this highly mobile species. Additional information on the location of and divergence between population clusters is required, particularly because wolves are currently recolonizing parts of Europe. We evaluated genetic structure in 177 wolves from 11 countries using over 67K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci. The results supported previous findings of an isolated Italian population with lower genetic diversity than that observed across other areas of Europe. Wolves from the remaining countries were primarily structured in a north-south axis, with Croatia, Bulgaria, and Greece (Dinaric-Balkan) differentiated from northcentral wolves that included individuals from Finland, Latvia, Belarus, Poland and Russia. Carpathian Mountain wolves in central Europe had genotypes intermediate between those identified in northcentral Europe and the Dinaric-Balkan cluster. Overall, individual genotypes from northcentral Europe suggested high levels of admixture. We observed high diversity within Belarus, with wolves from western and northern Belarus representing the two most differentiated groups within northcentral Europe. Our results support the presence of at least three major clusters (Italy, Carpathians, Dinaric-Balkan) in southern and central Europe. Individuals from Croatia also appeared differentiated from wolves in Greece and Bulgaria. Expansion from glacial refugia, adaptation to local environments, and human-related factors such as landscape fragmentation and frequent killing of wolves in some areas may have contributed to the observed patterns. Our findings can help inform conservation management of these apex predators and the ecosystems of which they are part.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid V. Stronen
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Białowieża, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Cino Pertoldi
- Department of Biosciences, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Aalborg University, Department 18/Section of Environmental Engineering, Aalborg, Denmark
- Aalborg Zoo, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ditte Demontis
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ettore Randi
- Aalborg University, Department 18/Section of Environmental Engineering, Aalborg, Denmark
- Laboratorio di Genetica, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | | | - Małgorzata Pilot
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Vadim E. Sidorovich
- Institute of Zoology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Ihor Dykyy
- Department of Zoology, Biological Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Josip Kusak
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Ilpo Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Oulu, Finland
| | - Alexandros A. Karamanlidis
- ARCTUROS, Civil Society for the Protection and Management of Wildlife and the Natural Environment, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resources Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Aivars Ornicans
- Latvian State Forest Research Institute “Silava”, Salaspils, Latvia
| | - Vladimir A. Lobkov
- Zoological museum of Odessa, National I.I. Mechnikov University, Odessa, Ukraine
| | - Vitalii Dumenko
- Biosphere Reserve Askania Nova, Askania-Nova, Chaplynka District, Kherson Region, Ukraine
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42
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Koskela A, Kaartinen S, Aspi J, Kojola I, Helle P, Rytkönen S. Does Grey Wolf Presence Affect Habitat Selection of Wolverines? ANN ZOOL FENN 2013. [DOI: 10.5735/085.050.0405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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43
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Niskanen A, Kennedy L, Kojola I, Lohi H, Ruokonen M, Aspi J. Immune gene diversity in grey wolves (Canis lupus). J Vet Behav 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2013.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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44
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Deksne G, Laakkonen J, Näreaho A, Jokelainen P, Holmala K, Kojola I, Sukura A. Endoparasites of the Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) in Finland. J Parasitol 2013; 99:229-34. [DOI: 10.1645/ge-3161.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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45
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Jansson E, Ruokonen M, Kojola I, Aspi J. Rise and fall of a wolf population: genetic diversity and structure during recovery, rapid expansion and drastic decline. Mol Ecol 2012; 21:5178-93. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2011] [Revised: 08/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Jansson
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000; Oulu; FIN-90014; Finland
| | - M. Ruokonen
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000; Oulu; FIN-90014; Finland
| | - I. Kojola
- Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute; Rakentajantie 3; PO Box 413; Oulu; FIN-90014; Finland
| | - J. Aspi
- Department of Biology; University of Oulu; PO Box 3000; Oulu; FIN-90014; Finland
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46
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Kojola I, Heikkinen S. Problem brown bearsUrsus arctosin Finland in relation to bear feeding for tourism purposes and the density of bears and humans. Wildlife Biology 2012. [DOI: 10.2981/11-052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- John D. C. Linnell
- a Norwegian Institute for Nature Research , Tungasletta 2, 7485 , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Erling J. Solberg
- a Norwegian Institute for Nature Research , Tungasletta 2, 7485 , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Scott Brainerd
- a Norwegian Institute for Nature Research , Tungasletta 2, 7485 , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Olof Liberg
- b Grimsö Wildlife Research Station , Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , 73091 , Riddarhyttan , Sweden
| | - Håkan Sand
- b Grimsö Wildlife Research Station , Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , 73091 , Riddarhyttan , Sweden
| | | | - Ilpo Kojola
- d Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute , Tutkijantie 2, 90570 , Oulu , Finland
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48
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Schregel J, Kopatz A, Hagen SB, Brøseth H, Smith ME, Wikan S, Wartiainen I, Aspholm PE, Aspi J, Swenson JE, Makarova O, Polikarpova N, Schneider M, Knappskog PM, Ruokonen M, Kojola I, Tirronen KF, Danilov PI, Eiken HG. Limited gene flow among brown bear populations in far Northern Europe? Genetic analysis of the east-west border population in the Pasvik Valley. Mol Ecol 2012; 21:3474-88. [PMID: 22680614 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2012.05631.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasively collected genetic data can be used to analyse large-scale connectivity patterns among populations of large predators without disturbing them, which may contribute to unravel the species' roles in natural ecosystems and their requirements for long-term survival. The demographic history of brown bears (Ursus arctos) in Northern Europe indicates several extinction and recolonization events, but little is known about present gene flow between populations of the east and west. We used 12 validated microsatellite markers to analyse 1580 hair and faecal samples collected during six consecutive years (2005-2010) in the Pasvik Valley at 70°N on the border of Norway, Finland and Russia. Our results showed an overall high correlation between the annual estimates of population size (N(c) ), density (D), effective size (N(e) ) and N(e) /N(c) ratio. Furthermore, we observed a genetic heterogeneity of ∼0.8 and high N(e) /N(c) ratios of ∼0.6, which suggests gene flow from the east. Thus, we expanded the population genetic study to include Karelia (Russia, Finland), Västerbotten (Sweden) and Troms (Norway) (477 individuals in total) and detected four distinct genetic clusters with low migration rates among the regions. More specifically, we found that differentiation was relatively low from the Pasvik Valley towards the south and east, whereas, in contrast, moderately high pairwise F(ST) values (0.91-0.12) were detected between the east and the west. Our results indicate ongoing limits to gene flow towards the west, and the existence of barriers to migration between eastern and western brown bear populations in Northern Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Schregel
- Bioforsk Soil and Environment, Svanhovd, Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, NO-9925 Svanvik, Norway.
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Andreassen R, Schregel J, Kopatz A, Tobiassen C, Knappskog PM, Hagen SB, Kleven O, Schneider M, Kojola I, Aspi J, Rykov A, Tirronen KF, Danilov PI, Eiken HG. A forensic DNA profiling system for Northern European brown bears (Ursus arctos). Forensic Sci Int Genet 2012; 6:798-809. [PMID: 22483764 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2012.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Revised: 02/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A set of 13 dinucleotide STR loci (G1A, G10B, G1D, G10L, MU05, MU09, MU10, MU15, MU23, MU26, MU50, MU51, MU59) were selected as candidate markers for a DNA forensic profiling system for Northern European brown bear (Ursus arctos). We present results from validation of the markers with respect to their sensitivity, species specificity and performance (precision, heterozygote balance and stutter ratios). All STRs were amplified with 0.6ng template input, and there were no false bear genotypes in the cross-species amplification tests. The validation experiments showed that stutter ratios and heterozygote balance was more pronounced than in the tetranucleotide loci used in human forensics. The elevated ratios of stutter and heterozygote balance at the loci validated indicate that these dinucleotide STRs are not well suited for interpretation of individual genotypes in mixtures. Based on the results from the experimental validations we discuss the challenges related to genotyping dinucleotide STRs in single source samples. Sequence studies of common alleles showed that, in general, the size variation of alleles corresponded with the variation in number of repeats. The samples characterized by sequence analysis may serve as standard DNA samples for inter laboratory calibration. A total of 479 individuals from eight Northern European brown bear populations were analyzed in the 13 candidate STRs. Locus MU26 was excluded as a putative forensic marker after revealing large deviations from expected heterozygosity likely to be caused by null-alleles at this locus. The remaining STRs did not reveal significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium expectations except for loci G10B and MU10 that showed significant deviations in one population each, respectively. There were 9 pairwise locus comparisons that showed significant deviation from linkage equilibrium in one or two out of the eight populations. Substantial genetic differentiation was detected in some of the pairwise population comparisons and the average estimate of population substructure (F(ST)) was 0.09. The average estimate of inbreeding (F(IS)) was 0.005. Accounting for population substructure and inbreeding the total average probability of identity in each of the eight populations was lower than 1.1×10(-9) and the total average probability of sibling identity was lower than 1.3×10(-4). The magnitude of these measurements indicates that if applying these twelve STRs in a DNA profiling system this would provide individual specific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Andreassen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo and Akershus University College, Oslo, Norway.
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50
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Gurarie E, Suutarinen J, Kojola I, Ovaskainen O. Summer movements, predation and habitat use of wolves in human modified boreal forests. Oecologia 2011; 165:891-903. [PMID: 21207232 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-010-1883-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2010] [Accepted: 11/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Grey wolves (Canis lupus), formerly extirpated in Finland, have recolonized a boreal forest environment that has been significantly altered by humans, becoming a patchwork of managed forests and clearcuts crisscrossed by roads, power lines, and railways. Little is known about how the wolves utilize this impacted ecosystem, especially during the pup-rearing summer months. We tracked two wolves instrumented with GPS collars transmitting at 30-min intervals during two summers in eastern Finland, visiting all locations in the field, identifying prey items and classifying movement behaviors. We analyzed preference and avoidance of habitat types, linear elements and habitat edges, and tested the generality of our results against lower resolution summer movements of 23 other collared wolves. Wolves tended to show a strong preference for transitional woodlands (mostly harvested clearcuts) and mixed forests over coniferous forests and to use forest roads and low use linear elements to facilitate movement. The high density of primary roads in one wolf's territory led to more constrained use of the home territory compared to the wolf with fewer roads, suggesting avoidance of humans; however, there did not appear to be large differences on the hunting success or the success of pup rearing for the two packs. In total, 90 kills were identified, almost entirely moose (Alces alces) and reindeer (Rangifer tarandus sspp.) calves of which a large proportion were killed in transitional woodlands. Generally, wolves displayed a high level of adaptability, successfully exploiting direct and indirect human-derived modifications to the boreal forest environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliezer Gurarie
- National Marine Mammal Laboratory, NOAA Fisheries, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115, USA.
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