Phylogeography of the New Zealand blue duck (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos): implications for translocation and species recovery

摘要: Translocation of individuals among extant populations is an important tool in species conservation that allows managers to supplement dwindling and potentially alleviate the deleterious effects inbreeding. Ideal translocation strategy should consider historical relationships existing avoid potential disruption population subdivision local adaptation. Here, we examine mitochondrial sequence variation endangered blue duck Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos, a New Zealand endemic riverine specialist, facilitate informed decision making future translocations. Behavioural observations suggest dispersal limited may result genetic structure within between regional populations. We analysed 894 base pairs control region 78 adult ducks sampled from 11 river catchments across species’ range (representing four regions North Island three South Island) found strong significant both islands. These results, combined with 2.0% divergence islands, indicates be treated as separate management units. The relationship differentiation geographic distance for on conformed “isolation by distance” pattern. Overall, recommend translocations not made Islands those each island restricted neighbouring catchments.