Population genomics reveals deep diversification in Malayan pangolins

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Conservation Biology
• Zoology

Background:

• Archipelagos and oceanic islands exhibit high endemism, linked to rapid speciation.
• The Malayan pangolin (Manis javanica) is a critically endangered species found in China and Southeast Asia, including oceanic islands.
• Understanding population structure is crucial for Malayan pangolin conservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the population structure and genetic consequences of Malayan pangolin distribution across mainland and island habitats.
• To assess the genetic diversity and inbreeding levels within Malayan pangolin populations.
• To confirm the existence of a new Asian pangolin species, Manis mysteria.

Main Methods:

• Large-scale population genomic analysis of Malayan pangolins.
• Analysis of genomic and skull morphological evidence.
• Assessment of genetic diversity and genome-wide inbreeding.

Main Results:

• Identified three highly distinct genetic populations of Malayan pangolins.
• The largest population spans mainland China to Southeast Asia; two smaller populations are in Borneo.
• Confirmed a fifth Asian pangolin species, Manis mysteria, using genomic and morphological data.
• Genetic diversity and inbreeding are moderate overall, but northeastern Borneo populations show low diversity and high inbreeding.

Conclusions:

• Malayan pangolin populations exhibit significant genetic differentiation, particularly between mainland and Bornean groups.
• Anthropogenic factors have not severely impacted the overall genetic sustainability of Malayan pangolins.
• Malayan pangolins in northeastern Borneo require urgent conservation attention due to low genetic diversity and high inbreeding.