Phylogeography and conservation genetics of Eld's deer (Cervus eldi)

Area of Science:

• Conservation genetics
• Evolutionary biology
• Wildlife management

Background:

• Eld's deer (Cervus eldi) is critically endangered with historical distribution across South Asia and Indochina.
• Understanding genetic population structure is vital for effective conservation of this cervid.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region variation across Eld's deer subspecies.
• To elucidate the genetic population structure and evolutionary history of Eld's deer.
• To assess genetic diversity in wild and captive populations.

Main Methods:

• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequencing.
• Phylogenetic analysis of mtDNA haplotypes.
• Comparison of genetic diversity indices across populations.

Main Results:

• Phylogeny indicates C. eldi eldi is more closely related to C. e. thamin than C. e. siamensis.
• Strong phylogeographic structure observed between and within subspecies, suggesting limited historical dispersal.
• No haplotype variation found in C. eldi eldi and Hainan Island C. e. siamensis populations, indicating severe bottlenecks.
• Higher genetic diversity in managed captive and healthy wild populations compared to unmanaged captive populations.

Conclusions:

• Eld's deer subspecies represent distinct evolutionarily significant units (ESUs).
• Translocation of individuals within subspecies may be necessary to maintain genetic variation.
• Well-designed captive breeding programs are effective in maintaining genetic diversity.