High levels of genetic divergence between Tasmanian and Victorian platypuses, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, as revealed by microsatellite loci |
| |
Authors: | Elise Furlan Paul A Umina Paul J Mitrovski Nick Gust Josh Griffiths and Andrew R Weeks |
| |
Institution: | (1) Centre for Environmental Stress and Adaptation Research, Departments of Genetics and Zoology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia;(2) Department of Primary Industries and Water Hobart, Resource Management & Conservation Division, Tasmania, 7001, Australia |
| |
Abstract: | The platypus, Ornithorhynchus anatinus is a unique, iconic mammal endemic to Australia. Despite being listed as ‘common’ throughout its range, platypus abundance
is poorly understood. Dependence on aquatic habitats in Australia renders this species potentially vulnerable to a variety
of processes including drought, climate change and habitat loss. To assist with understanding population processes, 180 individuals
from Tasmania and Victoria were characterised across thirteen microsatellite loci. Large genetic differences were evident
between Tasmanian and Victorian O. anatinus. Within Tasmania, high levels of allelic diversity were detected with genetic differentiation identified among some populations.
Similarly, allelic diversity was high within Victorian platypuses, along with significant genetic differentiation among populations.
The large genetic differences found between Tasmanian and mainland platypuses indicate long-term isolation and it is likely
that the lack of past/present catchment connectedness contributes to differentiation found between populations within these
regions. Understanding patterns of genetic differentiation within and between catchments will help guide future conservation
management decisions for platypus. |
| |
Keywords: | |
本文献已被 SpringerLink 等数据库收录! |
|