What the Inbred Scandinavian Wolf Population Tells Us about the Nature of Conservation

摘要: The genetic aspects of population health are critical, but frequently difficult to assess. Of concern has been the constitution Scandinavian wolves (Canis lupus), which represent an important case in conservation. We examined incidence different congenital anomalies for 171 wolves, including immigrant founder female, born during a 32-year period between 1978 and 2010. rose from 13% 40% throughout study period. Our ability detect this increase was likely facilitated by having considered multiple kinds anomaly. Many found associated with inbreeding or some form deterioration. These observations have implications understanding conservation needs wolves. Moreover, these history managing focus attention on broader question, whether is merely about avoiding extinction remnant populations, also entails maintaining health.