Population genetic structure and habitat connectivity for jaguar (Panthera onca) conservation in Central Belize.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:Connectivity among jaguar (Panthera onca) populations will ensure natural gene flow and the long-term survival of the species throughout its range. Jaguar conservation efforts have focused primarily on connecting suitable habitat in a broad-scale. Accelerated habitat reduction, human-wildlife conflict, limited funding, and the complexity of jaguar behaviour have proven challenging to maintain connectivity between populations effectively. Here, we used non-invasive genetic sampling and individual-based conservation genetic analyses to assess genetic diversity and levels of genetic connectivity between individuals in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Maya Forest Corridor. We used expert knowledge and scientific literature to develop models of landscape permeability ba

SUBMITTER: Menchaca A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6933898 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature