Dynamics of hybridization and introgression in red wolves and coyotes.

摘要: Hybridization and introgression are significant causes of endangerment in many taxa considered the greatest biological threats to reintroduced population red wolves (Canis rufus) North Carolina (U.S.A.). Little is known, however, about these processes coyotes (C. latrans). We used individual-based simulations examine process hybridization between species. Under range circumstances we considered, colonizing established populations were quickly extirpated, persisted near carrying capacity, or had intermediate outcomes. Sensitivity analyses suggested that probabilities quasi extinction persistence capacity most affected by strength two reproductive barriers: wolf challenges assortative mating coyotes. Because model parameters for barriers may be difficult estimate, also sought identify other predictors fate. The proportion pure was a strong predictor future persistence. Finally, examined whether sterilization can effective minimizing while allowing grow. Our results suggest an short-term strategy reduce likelihood extirpation wolves. Whether numbers increased depends on level effort acting barriers. provide outline conditions likely required successful reestablishment long-term maintenance wild presence modeling approach prove generally useful providing insight into situations involving complex species interactions when data few.