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Updated: Mar 21, 2026

Induction and Evaluation of Inbreeding Crosses Using the Ant, Vollenhovia Emeryi

Induction and Evaluation of Inbreeding Crosses Using the Ant, Vollenhovia Emeryi

Published on: October 5, 2018

Inbreeding depression in a critically endangered carnivore.

Karin Norén¹, Erika Godoy¹, Love Dalén^1,2

¹Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, SE-10691 Stockholm, Sweden.

Molecular Ecology

|May 3, 2016

Summary

Inbreeding in arctic foxes significantly reduced survival and reproduction, highlighting its threat to endangered populations. Genetic rescue may be essential for the long-term persistence of this vulnerable species.

Keywords:

conservation extinction vortex inbreeding coefficient life history microsatellites

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Area of Science:

Conservation Biology
Population Genetics
Wildlife Ecology

Background:

Inbreeding, or mating between relatives, is theoretically known to cause harmful effects.
Empirical evidence for inbreeding depression in wild populations is scarce due to data collection challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the occurrence of inbreeding and its impact on fitness in a critically endangered arctic fox population.
To provide empirical data on inbreeding depression in a natural setting.

Main Methods:

Utilized a unique, genetically verified pedigree with individual fitness data over nine years.
Monitored 33 litters (205 individuals) from a population founded by only five individuals.
Analyzed inbreeding coefficients and their correlation with survival and reproductive success.

Main Results:

Observed a tenfold increase in average inbreeding coefficient, reaching half-sib mating levels.
Inbred arctic foxes exhibited reduced survival and reproduction.
Inbreeding depression effects varied with resource availability: reduced first-year survival in poor years, lower reproduction in good years.

Conclusions:

Inbreeding depression significantly impacts fundamental fitness traits in arctic foxes, potentially hindering population recovery.
The findings suggest that introducing new genetic material (genetic rescue) may be necessary for the long-term survival of this population.