Genetic diversity of Cingulata assessed by mitochondrial and microsatellite markers: the case of a Tolypeutes tricinctus (Linnaeus, 1758) population from Cerrado.

• Grant number: 12/16632-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: December 01, 2012
• End date: June 30, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Animal Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Nadia de Moraes Barros
• Grantee: Helena Tadiello de Moraes
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 13/12199-6 - Standardization, amplification and evaluation of microsatellite loci previously selected in Tolypeutes tricinctus, BE.EP.MS

Abstract

The Brazilian three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes tricinctus) belongs to the order Cingulata, is endemic to Brazil, and occurs in Caatinga and Cerrado biomes. It was believed to be extinct, but it was rediscovered in the early 1990s in different localities. Today, the Brazilian three-banded armadillo is classified as vulnerable, due to hunting and habitat loss. Studies published so far, regarding Evolutionary Biology and Genetics, are limited to phylogenetic analysis of Cingulata and Xenartrhra. No genetic diversity studies have been done. This project's main goals are to: 1 - select multiple and independent molecular markers in order to generate genetic diversity data; 2 - compare parameters of genetic diversity from T. tricinctus with a widely distributed and not endangered armadillo species; 3 - discuss about population effective size, viability, genetic diversity and conservation status. This study aims to contribute for a better understanding of genetic diversity and future management plans of the remaining T. tricinctus populations.

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

MORAES, Helena Tadiello de. Genetic diversity of Cingulata assessed by mitochondrial and microsatellite markers: the case of a Tolypeutes tricinctus (Linnaeus, 1758) population from Cerrado. 2015. Master's Dissertation - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Biociências (IBIOC/SB) São Paulo.