Reduced gene flow and bottleneck in the threatened giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus): implications for its conservation

Autor(es)

Nayra T. Rodrigues ^[1] ; Bruno H. Saranholi ; Alexandre R. Inforzato ^[3] ; Leandro Silveira ^[4] ; Arnaud Leonard Jean Desbiez ; Pedro M. Galetti Jr ^[6]

Afiliação do(s) autor(es)

^[1] Universidade Federal de São Carlos. Departamento de Genética e Evolução - Brasil

^[3] Universidade Federal de São Carlos. Departamento de Genética e Evolução - Brasil

^[4] Instituto Onça-Pintada - Brasil

^[6] Universidade Federal de São Carlos. Departamento de Genética e Evolução - Brasil

• Tipo de documento: Artigo Científico
• Fonte: GENETICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY; v. 47, n. 1 2024-02-19.

Resumo

Abstract The progressive fragmentation and loss of habitats represent the main threats for endangered species, causing genetic consequences that may have potential implications for a population’s long-term persistence. Large mammals are the most affected species among vertebrates. The giant armadillo Priodontes maximus is a large South American mammal threatened species, showing nocturnal, solitary and fossorial behavior, occurring at low population densities, and its population dynamics are still poorly known. In this study, we carried out the first assessment of genetic variability and population genetic structure of the species, using a panel of 15 polymorphic microsatellites developed by high-throughput genome sequencing. The spatial Bayesian clustering, Fst and Dest results indicated the presence of two genetic clusters (K = 2) in the study area. These results suggest a reduction in gene flow between individuals inhabiting the Brazilian savanna (Cerrado) and the Pantanal wetlands, with the increased human-driven habitat modifications possibly contributing for this scenario. A bottleneck signal was detected in both populations, and a subpopulation structuring in the Cerrado may also be reflecting consequences of the extensive habitat modifications. Findings from this study provide important and useful information for the future maintenance of genetic diversity and long-term conservation of this flagship species. (AU)

• Processo FAPESP: 22/01741-3 - Reavaliação das espécies de mamíferos que se acredita estar localmente extintas no Centro de Endemismo Pernambuco (CEP), a partir de DNA de amostras mistas e metabarcoding
• Beneficiário: Bruno Henrique Saranholi
• Modalidade de apoio: Bolsas no Brasil - Pós-Doutorado