Genetic diversity in animal populations: Patterns, processes, and applications to conservation

Janna R Willoughby, Purdue University

Abstract

Using a combination of genetic and genomic tools, I have investigated how species traits influence patterns of genetic diversity (GD), the genetic and genomic impacts of captive breeding, and the methods required for genetic sampling via environmental samples. In chapter two, I found that migratory vertebrates harbor less contemporary GD compared to non-migratory species and compare these trends between Classes and amongst dominant biomes in which the species reside. I found that the effect of migratory behavior on genetic diversity varies between vertebrate classes as does the biome in which the species occurs. In my third chapter, I use the same taxa delineations to investigate the relationship between conservation status and genetic diversity. I found that GD was typically smaller in threatened species relative to species of lesser conservation concern; I also propose a new method for identifying species of concern based on reduced GD. In chapters four and five, I compare the change in GD that occurs when populations are bred in captivity using multiple breeding protocols. Using microsatellites, mtDNA sequences, SNPs, and pedigrees, I identified the protocol that resulted in the slowest loss of GD due to reduced inbreeding and selection. However, I found that the effects of drift were not sufficiently mitigated in any captive population. Finally in chapter six, I review the published eDNA literature and determine the experimental factors that contribute to detection of target species. From these patterns, I suggest a method based on site-occupancy models for estimating required sampling effort.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

DeWoody, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Ecology|Genetics|Conservation|Zoology

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