Polygyny, census and effective population size in the threatened frog, Rana latastei

摘要: Effective population size (Ne) is a key determinant of genetic diversity populations. In amphibians, the ratio effective size/census (Ne/N) often very low, raising concerns for long-term persistence in isolated It has been proposed that phenomenon ‘genetic compensation’ increases Ne/N small populations, but underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Polygyny can decrease because negative relationship between polygyny and Ne. We used information (microsatellites) to evaluate census size, Ne populations threatened Italian agile frog Rana latastei. reconstructed parentage tadpoles from nine with eight 32 breeding females, using likelihood-based method; we analysed simulated datasets known properties confirm reliability this approach reconstructing polygyny. Furthermore, estimated approximate Bayesian computation. The level differed strongly among (average number mates per male: 2–6.4). was greater larger sizes. Moreover, variance male mating success large increased negatively related polygyny; as associated reduced Ne/N. polygynous species, increasing levels may explain low values, important implications conservation persistence.