Genetic analysis of an isolated red deer ( Cervus elaphus ) population showing signs of inbreeding depression

摘要: In the present study, we analysed 18 red deer specimens from a small (N = 50) and isolated population in Schleswig-Holstein, northern Germany, with respect to variability at nine polymorphic microsatellite loci 439 bp of mitochondrial DNA control region. Several cases brachygnathy (shortened lower jaw), commonly associated inbreeding depression, have been recorded population. Genetic was very low compared other European populations including neighbouring which under study derived some 130 years ago. The effective size estimated be seven individuals corresponding an increase (or loss heterozygosity) 7% each generation. This value is times higher than theoretical threshold level up natural selection believed counteract fixation deleterious alleles gene pool. As consequence, urgently needs genetic input overcome negative effects random drift inbreeding. To our knowledge, this one first genetically analyse showing strong signs depression.