Genetic variability in fallow deer, Dama dama L

Twelve blood proteins and enzymes were tested for polymorphism in a herd of fallow deer, Dama dama L., bred for meat production in Western Germany, to investigate the genetic constitution of the population. Although an enzyme polymorphism was detected (Catalase) for the first time in this species, electrophoretic variation is very low in comparison to other large ungulates. Possible explanations for this finding, such as recent inbreeding and a past genetic bottleneck, are given. The relationship between low genetic variation in biochemical marker systems and fitness is discussed.