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Minimum habitat thresholds required for conserving mountain lion genetic diversity
Justin A Dellinger1, Kyle D Gustafson2,3, Daniel J Gammons1
1California Department of Fish and Wildlife Sacramento California USA.
Ecology and Evolution
|October 19, 2020
Summary
Large mountain lion (Puma concolor) habitat areas are crucial for maintaining genetic diversity and viability. Protecting at least 10,000 km² of connected habitat is essential for preventing inbreeding and genetic drift in these populations.
Area of Science:
- Ecology and population genetics
- Wildlife conservation
- Habitat fragmentation
Background:
- Mountain lion (Puma concolor) populations in California show genetic structuring and varied diversity.
- Human development may fragment gene flow, impacting genetic viability.
- Habitat availability is hypothesized to influence genetic health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between habitat availability and the genetic viability of California mountain lion populations.
- To determine the critical habitat area needed for maintaining genetic diversity and effective population size.
- To assess the influence of habitat conservation status on genetic health.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 843,500 location fixes from 263 radio-collared mountain lions to derive a resource selection function.
- Assessed population genetic structure, diversity, and viability metrics.
- Correlated habitat area and conservation status with genetic parameters.
Main Results:
- The area of suitable habitat is strongly and positively associated with genetic diversity and viability metrics, especially effective population size.
- Contiguous habitat areas of ≥10,000 km² appear sufficient to mitigate genetic drift and inbreeding.
- Five of nine populations were below the critical habitat threshold, with two lacking connectivity.
Conclusions:
- Both the extent and protected status of suitable habitat significantly influence mountain lion genetic viability.
- Conservation strategies should focus on protecting large, connected habitat areas (≥10,000 km²) to support viable populations.
- Enhancing habitat connectivity, such as through wildlife crossings, is vital for isolated populations.
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