Migratory behaviour shapes spatial genetic structure of cyprinid fishes within the Lake Malawi catchment

• Genetic differences among freshwater fish populations are dependent on life‐history characteristics of the species, including the range of adult dispersal and the extent of homing to natal breeding grounds. However, the effects of variation in such characteristics on population genetic connectivity are rarely studied comparatively among closely related species.
• We studied population genetic structure within three congeneric cyprinid species from the Lake Malawi catchment that differ substantially in life‐history traits and conservation status, using a combination of microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA markers. Mpasa (Opsaridium microlepis) is a large (70 cm total length) migratory species that spawns in rivers, but as an adult is exclusively known from the main lake body. Sanjika (Opsaridium microcephalum), is a medium size (30 cm total length) species that exists in lake breeding, river‐lake migratory and apparently landlocked populations. Dwarf sanjika (Opsaridium tweddleorum) is a small non‐migratory species (15 cm total length) that persists in small tributaries surrounding the main lake and adjoining rivers.
• The results revealed striking differences among the three species in spatial genetic structuring. The river‐lake migratory mpasa showed only weak yet significant population genetic structure within the main Lake Malawi catchment, suggesting that there is no strong natal homing. The habitat‐generalist sanjika showed only weak spatial genetic differentiation at microsatellite loci within the Lake Malawi catchment, but moderate structure in mitochondrial DNA, potentially reflecting male‐biased dispersal. The river‐restricted dwarf sanjika showed strong genetic structure in both microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA, suggesting strictly limited dispersal at both adult and juvenile stages.
• We conclude that contrasting migration life histories have resulted in dramatically different patterns of population genetic structure among these congeneric species. The observed patterns demonstrate how divergent life‐history evolution may strongly influence broader patterns of population genetic connectivity in freshwater fish, with consequences for management and conservation. Specifically the results suggesting gene flow among Lake Malawi populations of mpasa, an IUCN red‐listed ‘Endangered’ species endemic to the lake catchment, imply that conservation initiatives operating at both local and catchment scales are needed to reverse local population decline.

     

Genetic diversity and population structure of the roughskin sculpin (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Trachidermus fasciatus</Emphasis> Heckel) inferred from microsatellite analyses: implications for its conservation and management

Identification of population units is crucial for management and monitoring programs, especially for endangered wild species. The roughskin sculpin (Trachidermus fasciatus Heckel) is a small catadromous fish and has been listed as a second class state protected aquatic animal since 1988 in China. To achieve sustainable conservation of this species, it is necessary to clarify the existing genetic structure both between and within populations. Here, population genetic structure among eight populations of T. fasciatus were analyzed by using 16 highly polymorphic microsatellites. High levels of genetic variation were observed in all populations. All pairwise F _ST estimates were significant after false discovery rate correction (overall average F _ST = 0.054). Furthermore, both STRUCTURE and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) analysis showed that the eight populations were grouped into six clusters. BAYESASS analysis showed generally low recent and asymmetric migration among populations. All these results suggested significant genetic structure across populations. However, there was no isolation by distance relationship among populations, likely resulting from barriers to gene flow created by habitat fragmentation. Our results highlight the need for in situ conservation efforts for T. fasciatus across its entire distribution range, through maximizing habitat size and quality to preserve overall genetic diversity and evolutionary potential.     

Extreme genetic structure in a small-bodied freshwater fish, the purple spotted gudgeon, Mogurnda adspersa (Eleotridae)

Freshwater fish are a group that is especially susceptible to biodiversity loss as they often exist naturally in small, fragmented populations that are vulnerable to habitat degradation, pollution and introduction of exotic species. Relatively little is known about spatial dynamics of unperturbed populations of small-bodied freshwater fish species. This study examined population genetic structure of the purple spotted gudgeon (Mogurnda adspersa, Eleotridae), a small-bodied freshwater fish that is widely distributed in eastern Australia. The species is threatened in parts of its range but is common in coastal streams of central Queensland where this study took place. Microsatellite (msat) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation was assessed for nine sites from four stream sections in two drainage basins. Very high levels of among population structure were observed (msat F(ST) = 0.18; mtDNA Φ(ST) = 0.85) and evidence for contemporary migration among populations was rare and limited to sites within the same section of stream. Hierarchical structuring of variation was best explained by stream section rather than by drainage basin. Estimates of contemporary effective population size for each site was low (range 28 - 63, Sibship method), but compared favorably with similar estimates for other freshwater fish species, and there was no genetic evidence for inbreeding or recent population bottlenecks. In conclusion, within a stable part of its range, M adspersa exists as a series of small, demographically stable populations that are highly isolated from one another. Complimentary patterns in microsatellites and mtDNA indicate this structuring is the result of long-term processes that have developed over a remarkably small spatial scale. High population structure and limited dispersal mean that recolonisation of locally extinct populations is only likely to occur from closely situated populations within stream sections. Limited potential for recolonisation should be considered as an important factor in conservation and management of this species.     

Population genetics of a widely distributed small freshwater fish with varying conservation concerns: the southern purple-spotted gudgeon, <Emphasis Type="Italic">Mogurnda adspersa</Emphasis>

Genetic variation plays a pivotal role in species viability and the maintenance of population genetic variation is a main focus of conservation biology. Threatened species often show reduced genetic variation compared to non-threatened species, and this is considered indicative of lowered evolutionary potential, compromised reproductive fitness, and elevated extinction risk. The southern purple-spotted gudgeon, Mogurnda adspersa, is a small freshwater fish with poor dispersal potential that was once common throughout the Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) and along the central east coast of Australia. Its numbers and distribution have shrunk dramatically in the MDB due to flow alteration, degradation of habitat, decreasing water quality, and introduction of alien species. We used microsatellite DNA markers to assess population structure and genetic variation at both large (i.e. across basin) and fine (i.e. within river catchments) spatial scales using a substantial sampling effort across the species range (n = 579 individuals; 35 localities). The results consistently indicated very low levels of genetic variation throughout, including along the east coast where the species is relatively common. At the broader scale, three highly differentiated groups of populations were found, concordant with previously reported genealogical distinctiveness. Hence we propose each group as a distinct Evolutionarily Significant Unit. We also inferred a minimum of 12 management units in M. adspersa, with no appreciable gene flow between them. Our study discloses findings relevant for both long- and short-term management, as it informs on the geographic context in which conservation priorities should be defined and specifies biological units for population monitoring and translocations.     

Conservation genetics of the endangered terrestrial orchid Liparis japonica in Northeast China based on AFLP markers

Levels of genetic diversity and population genetic structure of the rare, endangered terrestrial orchid Liparis japonica were examined for eight natural populations (n = 185) in Northeast China using six AFLP primer pairs, where this species has experienced severe habitat loss and fragmentation. Based on 406 DNA bands, a high level of genetic diversity was found at the species level with the PPB of 85.47 %, while the genetic diversity at the population level was low (PPB = 47.48 %). A significantly high degree of population differentiation was found with 42.69 % variation existed among populations as measured by AMOVA, indicating potential restricted gene flow. The genetic distances between populations were independent of the corresponding geographic distances, and the genetic relationship of individuals had no significant correlation with their spatial distribution. The restricted gene flow might be impacted by reduced population size, habitat destruction and fragmentation. The results in this study suggested that habitat protection and keeping a stable environment are critical for the conservation of L. japonica species.     

From Shelf to Shelf: Assessing Historical and Contemporary Genetic Differentiation and Connectivity across the Gulf of Mexico in Gag,Mycteroperca microlepis

Describing patterns of connectivity among populations of species with widespread distributions is particularly important in understanding the ecology and evolution of marine species. In this study, we examined patterns of population differentiation, migration, and historical population dynamics using microsatellite and mitochondrial loci to test whether populations of the epinephelid fish, Gag, Mycteroperca microlepis, an important fishery species, are genetically connected across the Gulf of Mexico and if so, whether that connectivity is attributable to either contemporary or historical processes. Populations of Gag on the Campeche Bank and the West Florida Shelf show significant, but low magnitude, differentiation. Time since divergence/expansion estimates associated with historical population dynamics indicate that any population or spatial expansions indicated by population genetics would have likely occurred in the late Pleistocene. Using coalescent-based approaches, we find that the best model for explaining observed spatial patterns of contemporary genetic variation is one of asymmetric gene flow, with movement from Campeche Bank to the West Florida Shelf. Both estimated migration rates and ecological data support the hypothesis that Gag populations throughout the Gulf of Mexico are connected via present day larval dispersal. Demonstrating this greatly expanded scale of connectivity for Gag highlights the influence of “ghost” populations (sensu Beerli) on genetic patterns and presents a critical consideration for both fisheries management and conservation of this and other species with similar genetic patterns.     

Phylogeographic structure in the threatened Yarra pygmy perch <Emphasis Type="Italic">Nannoperca obscura</Emphasis> (Teleostei: Percichthyidae) has major implications for declining populations

Molecular genetic information should be a pre-requisite when evaluating conservation priorities in highly structured species such as freshwater fishes. Nuclear (allozyme) and mitochondrial (cytochrome b) markers were used to investigate phylogeographic structure in the Yarra pygmy perch Nannoperca obscura (Klunzinger), a threatened freshwater fish endemic to mainland south-eastern Australia. Complementary patterns of strong, geographically defined sub-structure were observed including a major east–west divergence (at the Glenelg River), four diagnosable lineages, and statistically-significant differences between most populations. Accordingly, four Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) are defined and multiple, drainage-scale Management Units (MUs) suggested. Since Nannoperca obscura is a relatively poor disperser with no apparent gene flow between most populations, any regional extirpation would see the irreversible loss of genetic diversity. This is problematic, as several populations, most notably a recently discovered ESU in the Murray-Darling Basin, are feared extirpated through a combination of anthropogenic threats and severe drought. The potential loss of unique evolutionarily components within N. obscura soon after their discovery highlights with some urgency, the need to define and protect conservation units in highly modified freshwater habitats.     

Spatial and temporal population genetic variation and structure of Nothotsuga longibracteata (Pinaceae), a relic conifer species endemic to subtropical China

Nothotsuga longibracteata, a relic and endangered conifer species endemic to subtropical China, was studied for examining the spatial-temporal population genetic variation and structure to understand the historical biogeographical processes underlying the present geographical distribution. Ten populations were sampled over the entire natural range of the species for spatial analysis, while three key populations with large population sizes and varied age structure were selected for temporal analyses using both nuclear microsatellites (nSSR) and chloroplast microsatellites (cpSSR). A recent bottleneck was detected in the natural populations of N. longibracteata. The spatial genetic analysis showed significant population genetic differentiation across its total geographical range. Notwithstanding, the temporal genetic analysis revealed that the level of genetic diversity between different age class subpopulations remained constant over time. Eleven refugia of the Last Glacial Maximum were identified, which deserve particular attention for conservation management.     

Progeny-testing of full-sibs IBD in a SSC2 QTL region highlights epistatic interactions for fatness traits in pigs

Background

Tetraena mongolica (Zygophyllaceae), an endangered endemic species in western Inner Mongolia, China. For endemic species with a limited geographical range and declining populations, historical patterns of demography and hierarchical genetic structure are important for determining population structure, and also provide information for developing effective and sustainable management plans. In this study, we assess genetic variation, population structure, and phylogeography of T. mongolica from eight populations. Furthermore, we evaluate the conservation and management units to provide the information for conservation.

Results

Sequence variation and spatial apportionment of the atp B- rbc L noncoding spacer region of the chloroplast DNA were used to reconstruct the phylogeography of T. mongolica. A total of 880 bp was sequenced from eight extant populations throughout the whole range of its distribution. At the cpDNA locus, high levels of genetic differentiation among populations and low levels of genetic variation within populations were detected, indicating that most seed dispersal was restricted within populations.

Conclusions

Demographic fluctuations, which led to random losses of genetic polymorphisms from populations, due to frequent flooding of the Yellow River and human disturbance were indicated by the analysis of BEAST skyline plot. Nested clade analysis revealed that restricted gene flow with isolation by distance plus occasional long distance dispersal is the main evolutionary factor affecting the phylogeography and population structure of T. mongolica. For setting a conservation management plan, each population of T. mongolica should be recognized as a conservation unit.     

Rampant drift in artificially fragmented populations of the endangered tidewater goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi)

Habitat fragmentation and its genetic consequences are a critically important issue in evaluating the evolutionary penalties of human habitat modification. Here, we examine the genetic structure and diversity in naturally subdivided and artificially fragmented populations of the endangered tidewater goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi), a small fish restricted to discrete coastal lagoons and estuaries in California, USA. We use five naturally fragmented coastal populations from a 300‐ km spatial scale as a standard to assess migration and drift relative to eight artificially fragmented bay populations from a 30‐ km spatial scale. Using nine microsatellite loci in 621 individuals, and a 522‐base fragment of mitochondrial DNA control region from 103 individuals, we found striking differences in the relative influences of migration and drift on genetic variation at these two scales. Overall, the artificially fragmented populations exhibited a consistent pattern of higher genetic differentiation and significantly lower genetic diversity relative to the naturally fragmented populations. Thus, even in a species characterized by habitat isolation and subdivision, further artificial fragmentation appears to result in substantial population genetic consequences and may not be sustainable.     

Geographic variation in relict populations: genetics and phenotype of bush-cricket Pholidoptera frivaldskyi (Orthoptera) in Carpathians

A decreasing population size is often causing species extinction, however, relict species persisting in small-sized populations counter this. We analysed spatial genetic variation and past changes in population size at the maternally-inherited mitochondrial DNA level to clarify the origin of all recently known isolated populations of Pholidoptera frivaldskyi occurring in the range of Carpathian Mountains. Along with that we analysed also morphological variation as some phenotypic traits can retain useful information on population genetic structure. We found a relatively low genetic diversity within isolated populations as 778 bp COI gene sequences revealed only 13 unique haplotypes (n = 173 individuals from 10 populations). The spatial analysis of molecular variance identified three geographically homogenous genetic clusters (one in Slovakia and two in Romania) with a high level of differentiation among them, suggesting restricted gene flow, whilst Bayesian skyline simulation reconstructed a negative demographic change through evolutionary time. Inferred genetic pattern clearly coincides with differences in males’ colour phenotype as the extent of pigmentation on the lateral pronotum varied significantly among genetic lineages. We suggest that geographical variation in the species populations has relict-like character and their isolated occurrence is not a result of recent introduction events. Identification of ‘evolutionary units’ may help in the conservation and management of this rare insect species.     

Genetic diagnosis of a rare myrmecochorous species,Plagiorhegma dubium (Berberidaceae): Historical genetic bottlenecks and strong spatial structures among populations

Distribution of genetic variation over time and space is relevant to demographic histories and tightly linked to ecological disturbances as well as evolutionary potential of an organism. Therefore, understanding the pattern of genetic diversity is a primary step in conservation and management projects for rare and threatened plant species. We used eight microsatellite markers to examine the level of genetic diversity, spatial structure, and demographic history of Plagiorhegma dubium, a rare myrmecochorous herb, populations sampled across northeast Asia and Siberia. We found low within‐population genetic variation associated with historical bottlenecks. Although pairwise F_ST values were not much higher than the ones found in similar life form species, STRUCTURE and PCoA revealed a clear broadscale spatial pattern of genetic structure. Bayesian clustering (best K = 6) and PCoA identified three populations that are distinctive from neighboring populations in the Korean peninsula, which suggests potential units for conservation and management plans in Korea. MIGRATE‐N and BAYESASS showed that both contemporary (0.003–0.045) and historical migration rates (2 × e^?5?4.6 × e^?4) were low. Our findings provide a good example, where genetic considerations should be integrated for conservation and management plans of rare and threatened species.     

Multi‐scale effects of impoundments on genetic structure of creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) in the Kansas River basin

1. Habitat fragmentation has been implicated as a primary cause for the ongoing erosion of global biodiversity, yet our understanding of the consequences in lotic systems is limited for many species and regions. Because of harsh environmental conditions that select for high colonisation rates, prairie stream fishes may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of fragmentation. Hence, there is urgent need for broader understanding of fragmentation in prairie streams such that meaningful conservation strategies can be developed. Further, examination at large spatial scales, including multiple impoundments and un‐impounded catchments, will help identify the spatial extent of species movement through the landscape. 2. Our study used data from 10 microsatellite loci to describe the genetic structure of creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) populations across four catchments (three impounded and one un‐impounded) in the Kansas River basin. We investigated whether genetic diversity was eroded in response to habitat fragmentation imposed by reservoirs and whether intervening lentic habitat increased resistance to dispersal among sites within a catchment. 3. Our analyses revealed that genetic diversity estimates were consistent with large populations regardless of the location of the sampled tributaries, and there was little evidence of recent population reductions. Nevertheless, we found a high degree of spatial genetic structure, suggesting that catchments comprise a set of isolated genetic units and that sample sites within catchments are subdivided into groups largely defined by intervening habitat type. Our data therefore suggest that lentic habitat is a barrier to dispersal among tributaries, thus reducing the opportunity for genetic rescue of populations in tributaries draining into reservoirs. Isolation by a reservoir, however, may not be immediately deleterious if the isolated tributary basin supports a large population.     

Population structure and gene flow in a heavily disturbed habitat: implications for the management of the imperilled Red Hills salamander (Phaeognathus hubrichti)

Estimating levels of gene flow and assessing levels of population connectivity are of critical importance to the field of conservation genetics, especially for imperiled species. Many factors can influence dispersal and therefore gene-flow patterns across a natural landscape. These patterns can be substantially altered by the impacts of habitat modification by humans or natural phenomena. Landscape-genetic studies that address both historical and contemporary influences on gene flow can be critical to demonstrating whether isolated populations with low levels of genetic variation are typical of the species or a result of strong negative effects of such modification. We used 10 microsatellite markers to investigate the spatial genetic patterns of the Red Hills salamander (Phaeognathus hubrichti), a federally listed species. Bayesian clustering revealed five well-supported demes within the range of P. hubrichti. Gene-flow analysis suggested that overall migration levels for P. hubrichti are low, but coalescent methods indicate that migration levels were significantly higher before habitat modification by humans. By accounting for history and species characteristics, our results suggest that loss and fragmentation of habitat have strongly negatively affected P. hubrichti by reducing migration, increasing bottlenecks, and promoting high levels of inbreeding.     

Phylogeography of the white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius italicus) in Spain: inferences from microsatellite markers

The white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius italicus), a cornerstone of Spain’s aquatic ecosystems, was once widely distributed throughout much of the country. Unfortunately, its populations have suffered very strong declines over the last 40 years due to the spread of introduced species (red swamp and signal crayfishes), diseases, habitat loss and other anthropogenic impacts. The present work examines the genetic variation in 23 Spanish and four Italian populations of white-clawed crayfish via the analysis of microsatellite loci. The data show genetic variation in the Spanish populations to be affected by drastic and successive bottlenecks. Notwithstanding, the diversity of these Spanish populations in terms of observed heterozygosity is similar to or even higher than that recorded for other European populations studied using these same markers. North-central Spanish populations are clearly differentiated from the country’s remaining populations; they should be considered distinct management units. Processes occurred in historical and recent times, such as genetic drift and translocations, contribute greatly to this genetic structure. These data provide useful information for conservation of this species, since the preservation of its population structure and genetic variability should be goals for management decisions.     

Population structure and genetic diversity in the endangered bluemask darter (Etheostoma akatulo)

Bluemask darters (Etheostoma akatulo) were sampled from the four drainages where extant populations of this narrowly endemic freshwater fish are known to exist. Population genetic diversity and structure were assessed at 10 microsatellite loci. All populations exhibited low levels of genetic variation, with expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.2 to 0.35. Significant population subdivision was found among most tributaries, and genetic divergence was strongly correlated with geographic distance. Bayesian population assignment and pairwise population differentiation measures both identified a lack of differentiation between E. akatulo populations inhabiting Cane Creek and the Caney Fork. This observation reduced the number of distinct breeding populations of this species to three. We also used approximate Bayesian computation to compare three models of demographic history in this species. A constant population size model was favored over models that included historic or recent population reductions. Our results suggest that impoundment of the Caney Fork and its tributaries, by completion of Great Falls Dam in 1916, was not responsible for the reduced genetic diversity in the sampled populations. Given the low levels of genetic diversity within populations and the limited geographic distribution, future conservation efforts should seek to maximize available habitat while simultaneously limiting the influences of anthropogenic stressors in the system.     

Water availability strongly impacts population genetic patterns of an imperiled Great Plains endemic fish

Genetic, demographic, and environmental processes affect natural populations synergistically, and understanding their interplay is crucial for the conservation of biodiversity. Stream fishes in metapopulations are particularly sensitive to habitat fragmentation because persistence depends on dispersal and colonization of new habitat but dispersal is constrained to stream networks. Great Plains streams are increasingly fragmented by water diversion and climate change, threatening connectivity of fish populations in this ecosystem. We used seven microsatellite loci to describe population and landscape genetic patterns across 614 individuals from 12 remaining populations of Arkansas darter (Etheostoma cragini) in Colorado, a candidate species for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. We found small effective population sizes, low levels of genetic diversity within populations, and high levels of genetic structure, especially among basins. Both at- and between-site landscape features were associated with genetic diversity and connectivity, respectively. Available stream habitat and amount of continuous wetted area were positively associated with genetic diversity within a site, while stream distance and intermittency were the best predictors of genetic divergence among sites. We found little genetic contribution from historic supplementation efforts, and we provide a set of management recommendations for this species that incorporate a conservation genetics perspective.     

Population structure and reproduction of Mimagoniates microlepis with a new hypothesis of ontogenetic migration: implications for stream fish conservation in the Neotropics

Longitudinal size segregation and reproductive aspects of Mimagoniates microlepis were studied along the catchment of the Piraquara River, a tributary of the Igua?u River. Monthly fish sampling were completed at four sites along a longitudinal gradient. In addition, we summarized and compared key species-ecological traits of three different populations of this species. Data from the two additional populations were obtained from the literature. Our findings concerning population structure and reproduction of this species demonstrate that ontogenetic migration occurs within this population. During flash floods small individuals (C1) are carried to downstream habitats (P1). As they grow, we assume that their swimming capacity tends to increase and they are able to explore upstream habitats. This ontogenetic migration dynamic is a common and underexplored pattern for small stream fish in the Neotropics, and it helps to ensure, as a consequence, the long term persistence of the population along the entire hydrographic basin. Therefore, the alteration of only one portion of the river can compromise the entire migration process and consequently the entire population. In addition, the present study is the only source of ecological information for this population from before the recent construction of the Piraquara II dam. This reinforces the urgent need for conservation strategies for this population of M. microlepis and other similar populations or species.     

Very Low Population Structure in a Highly Mobile and Wide-Ranging Endangered Bird Species

The loss of biodiversity following fragmentation and degradation of habitat is a major issue in conservation biology. As competition for resources increases following habitat loss and fragmentation, severe population declines may occur even in common, highly mobile species; such demographic decline may cause changes within the population structure of the species. The regent honeyeater, Anthochaera phrygia, is a highly nomadic woodland bird once common in its native southeast Australia. It has experienced a sharp decline in abundance since the late 1970s, following clearing of large areas of its preferred habitat, box-ironbark woodland, within the last 200 years. A captive breeding program has been established as part of efforts to restore this species. This study used genetic data to examine the range-wide population structure of regent honeyeaters, including spatial structure, its change through time, sex differences in philopatry and mobility, and genetic differences between the captive and wild populations. There was low genetic differentiation between birds captured in different geographic areas. Despite the recent demographic decline, low spatial structure appears to have some temporal consistency. Both sexes appear to be highly mobile, and there does not seem to be significant genetic differentiation between the captive and wild populations. We conclude that management efforts for survival of this species, including habitat protection, restoration, and release of captive-bred birds into the wild, can treat the species as effectively a single genetic population.     

Microsatellite Markers Reveal Strong Genetic Structure in the Endemic Chilean Dolphin

Understanding genetic differentiation and speciation processes in marine species with high dispersal capabilities is challenging. The Chilean dolphin, Cephalorhynchus eutropia, is the only endemic cetacean of Chile and is found in two different coastal habitats: a northern habitat with exposed coastlines, bays and estuaries from Valparaíso (33°02′S) to Chiloé (42°00′S), and a southern habitat with highly fragmented inshore coastline, channels and fjords between Chiloé and Navarino Island (55°14′S). With the aim of evaluating the potential existence of conservation units for this species, we analyzed the genetic diversity and population structure of the Chilean dolphin along its entire range. We genotyped 21 dinucleotide microsatellites for 53 skin samples collected between 1998 and 2012 (swab: n = 8, biopsy: n = 38, entanglement n = 7). Bayesian clustering and spatial model analyses identified two genetically distinct populations corresponding to the northern and southern habitats. Genetic diversity levels were similar in the two populations (He: 0.42 v/s 0.45 for southern and northern populations, respectively), while effective size population was higher in the southern area (Ne: 101 v/s 39). Genetic differentiation between these two populations was high and significant (F_ST = 0.15 and R_ST = 0.19), indicating little or no current gene flow. Because of the absence of evident geographical barriers between the northern and southern populations, we propose that genetic differentiation may reflect ecological adaptation to the different habitat conditions and resource uses. Therefore, the two genetic populations of this endemic and Near Threatened species should be considered as different conservation units with independent management strategies.