The sociogenetic structure of a controlled feral pig population

摘要: In Australia, the feral pig (Sus scrofa) is a significant vertebrate pest that has an impact on agricultural production, public health and ecosystem integrity. Although pigs are controlled throughout much of their range, little known about these control programs have had social biology, structure dispersal pigs. To begin to address this, we collected demographic data genetic samples from 123 culled during regional aerial shooting program over 33 pastoral properties in semi-arid rangelands southern Queensland, Australia. Sampling was carried out after two years extensive efforts (aerial 1080-baiting) therefore represented controlled, persecuted population with bias towards young animals. The analysis 13 microsatellite loci suggested females will accept multiple matings, form loose mobs appear be highly dynamic groups, males travel large distances between mobs. These indicate this high level contact single open no evidence (population) structuring. Such information may important integrate into management strategies, particularly development contingency plans regarding spread wildlife diseases.