Genetic structure of introduced populations: 120-year-old DNA footprint of historic introduction in an insular small mammal population.

ABSTRACT: Wildlife populations have been introduced to new areas by people for centuries, but this human-mediated movement can disrupt natural patterns of genetic structure by altering patterns of gene flow. Insular populations are particularly prone to these influences due to limited opportunities for natural dispersal onto islands. Consequently, understanding how genetic patterns develop in island populations is important, particularly given that islands are frequently havens for protected wildlife. We examined the evolutionary origins and extent of genetic structure within the introduced island population of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) on the Channel Island of Jersey using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequence and nuclear microsatellite genotypes. Our findings reveal two differen

SUBMITTER: Simpson S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3605850 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature