Genetic Characteristics of the Japanese Serow Capricornis crispus in the Kii Mountain Range, Central Japan

摘要: The Japanese serow, Capricornis crispus, is an indigenous bovid species exclusively inhabiting mountain regions in the main islands, excepting Hokkaido. It had decreased abundance to its lowest level due overhunting and deforestation, with distribution severely fragmented from middle of 20th century, many populations C. crispus currently facing risk extinction. Kii Mountain Range (KM) on Honshu one such location that has seen a drastic population decline crispus. In this study, we examined genetic characteristics KM neighboring Chubu district, using mtDNA microsatellite markers, order devise strategies for conservation. Results were characterized by low nucleotide diversity five endemic two dominant haplotypes shared individuals regions. A Bayesian skyline plot indicated gradual increase after last glacial maximum. For microsatellites, was comparable Shizuoka higher than Shikoku. Recent bottlenecks strongly suggested KM. clustering showed cline between regions, where multivariate analysis three local populations. Mantel test male-biased dispersal. These results indicate constitute multiple populations, connected through restricted gene flow. conservation it important define small-scale units, among which connectivity should be facilitated prevent further loss diversity.