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Genetic differentiation among cottontails from isolated playa basins.
R A Van den Bussche1, M J Hamilton, R K Chesser
1Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock 79409.
Genetica
|November 30, 1987
Summary
Eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus) populations in Texas show significant genetic differences between playas. This suggests habitat barriers limit gene flow and dispersal, impacting rabbit population genetics.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Population Genetics
- Zoology
Background:
- Understanding genetic variation is crucial for wildlife conservation.
- Sylvilagus floridanus (Eastern Cottontail) is a common rabbit species in North America.
- Playa basins represent unique ecological niches that may influence population structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate protein variation in Sylvilagus floridanus populations.
- To assess genetic differentiation among populations inhabiting different playa basins.
- To explore the relationship between genetic distance and geographic distance.
Main Methods:
- Starch-gel electrophoresis was used to analyze protein variation.
- 182 individuals from 19 playa basins in Castro Co., Texas were sampled.
- F-statistics and Nei's genetic distance were calculated to assess population differentiation and relatedness.
Main Results:
- Heterozygote deficiencies were observed in all sampled populations.
- Significant population differentiation was detected at six genetic loci.
- A positive correlation was found between genetic distance and linear geographic distance.
- Genetic distances ranged from 0.20 to 0.388.
Conclusions:
- Expanses of unsuitable habitat likely hinder genetic exchange and long-distance dispersal.
- Differential selection against heterozygotes during winter may contribute to observed heterozygote deficiencies.
- Playa basin isolation contributes to the genetic structuring of Sylvilagus floridanus populations.