During the last 2 decades, European brown hare (Lepus europaeus) populations have declined considerably. We evaluated whether this decline could have been associated with diminished overall fitness due to reduced genetic variability. We also estimated the extent of population differentiation. We typed 307 hares from 21 localities for 5 microsatellite loci and the mitochondrial d-loop. Analysis of molecular variance revealed a high degree of genetic variability, matrilinearily structured populations, male-biased gene flow, and lack of inbreeding. We did not identify any geographical or anthropogenic barriers to gene flow. Because extant populations are small and susceptible to random genetic drift, we recommend changes to current population management practices and periodic genetic surveys.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 April 2005
GENETIC STRUCTURE OF POPULATIONS OF EUROPEAN BROWN HARE: IMPLICATIONS FOR MANAGEMENT
JOERNS FICKEL,
ANKE SCHMIDT,
MATHIAS PUTZE,
HEINRICH SPITTLER,
ARNE LUDWIG,
WOLF JUERGEN STREICH,
CHRISTIAN PITRA
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
It is not available for individual sale.
This article is only available to subscribers.
It is not available for individual sale.
It is not available for individual sale.
Journal of Wildlife Management
Vol. 69 • No. 2
April 2005
Vol. 69 • No. 2
April 2005