Genetic diversity in connected reintroduced population: long term data on Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) in Europe.

P. Le Gouar (1) , F. Rigal (1) , Marie-Catherine Boisselier-Dubayle (2) , F. Sarrazin (1) , C. Arthur , J.P Choisy , O. Hatzofe , S. Henriquet , P. Lécuyer , C. Tessier , G. Susic , Sarah Samadi (2)

1 CERSP - Conservation des espèces, Restauration et Suivi des Populations
2 SAE - Systématique, adaptation, évolution

It is generally considered that limiting the loss of genetic diversity in reintroduced populations is essential to optimize the chances of success of population restora- tion. Indeed, to counter founder effect in a reintroduced population we should maximize the genetic variability within the founding group but also take into account networks of natural populations in the choice of the reintroduction area. However, assessment of relevant reintroduction strategies requires long-term post-release genetic monitoring. In this study, we analyzed genetic data from a network of native and reintroduced Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) populations successfully restored in Southern Europe. Using microsatellite markers, we characterized the level of genetic diversity and degree of genetic structure within and among three native colonies, four captive founding groups and one long-term monitored reintroduced population. We also used Bayesian assignment analysis to examine recent genetic connections between the reintro- duced population and the other populations. We aimed to assess the level of fragmentation among native populations, the effectiveness of random choice of founders to retain genetic variability of the species, the loss of genetic diversity in the reintroduced population and the effect of gene flow on this founder effect. Our results indicate that genetic diversity was similar in all populations but we detected signs of recent isolation for one native population. The reintroduced population showed a high immigration rate that limited loss of genetic diversity. Genetic investi- gations performed in native populations and post-released genetic monitoring have direct implications for founder choice and release design.

Domaines: Biochimie, Biologie Moléculaire

P. Le Gouar, F. Rigal, Marie-Catherine Boisselier-Dubayle, F. Sarrazin, C. Arthur, et al.. Genetic diversity in connected reintroduced population: long term data on Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) in Europe.. Conservation Genetics, 2008, 9, pp.349-359. ⟨hal-00418753⟩