Collaborative Conservation Genetics of Cryptic Reptile Taxa From Northern Australia.

Area of Science:

• Molecular Ecology and Taxonomy
• Biodiversity Research in Northern Australia
• Conservation Genetics

Background:

• Northern Australia is a biodiversity hotspot with many endemic and cryptic reptile species.
• Remote regions require collaborative efforts between Indigenous land managers and researchers to improve biodiversity knowledge.
• Previous surveys in East Arnhem Land were limited, necessitating further taxonomic research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify reptile species and lineages within three genera (Carlia, Ctenotus, Diporiphora) in East Arnhem Land using collaborative sampling and genetic techniques.
• To generate fine-scale species distribution data and identify potential range extensions.
• To explore genetic divergence patterns and their alignment with ecogeographic and Indigenous management boundaries.

Main Methods:

• Collaborative field sampling conducted by Indigenous rangers and researchers in East Arnhem Land.
• Reduced representation DNA sequencing to identify species and lineages.
• Ethical communication strategies incorporating Yolŋu social organization and metaphors (e.g., 'gurrkurr') to convey genetic results.

Main Results:

• Identification of 13 distinct taxa within the genera Carlia, Ctenotus, and Diporiphora.
• Collection of 243 new occurrence records across 93 locations, including range extensions.
• Preliminary evidence of genetic divergence in the Blue Mud Bay region, potentially linked to ecogeographic and management boundaries.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative research integrating Indigenous knowledge and molecular techniques effectively enhances reptile biodiversity assessment in poorly surveyed regions.
• The findings provide crucial data for future conservation efforts and taxonomic research in East Arnhem Land.
• The developed communication approach, using Indigenous metaphors, facilitates mutual understanding of genetic results across knowledge systems.