Estimating effective population size of guanacos in Patagonia: an integrative approach for wildlife conservation

摘要: By the mid-1900s guanaco (Lama guanicoe) approached extinction in southern South America due to habitat destruction and hunting. In order maintain ecological prominence of this iconic species, as well assist management populations that are emerging economically while increasing conservation value, accurate potentially rapid estimates effective population size (Ne) (demographic and/or genetic) essential. Estimates Ne generally focus on genetic size; however, we posited both parameters may be necessary provide more timely estimates. Therefore, examined performance three demographic four estimators guanacos Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, at different years time intervals between 1987 1997. We compared our with census adult (Nac) during same period. Average Ne/Nac ratios varied 0.04 0.99 size. Genetic 0.02 0.08 Based upon group composition (n = 82) 1975, number breeding adults was 44 animals. Mean single-sample temporal 43.1, 34.3, respectively; estimated one 41. Our findings suggest intermittent (via fecal samples, carcasses, blood collection capture, other non-invasive methods) can crucial information regarding integrity increasingly isolated wild American camelids. Considering overall these estimators, differences how each functions, recommend an integrative approach using evaluate for camelids species polygynous mating systems.