Mitochondrial DNA variation and population structure of the island endemic Azorean bat ( Nyctalus azoreum)

摘要: The Azorean bat Nyctalus azoreum is the only endemic mammal native to remote archipelago of Azores. It evolved from a continental ancestor related Leisler’s leisleri and considered threatened because its restricted highly fragmented distribution. We studied genetic variability in 159 individuals 14 colonies sampled throughout archipelago. Sequences D-loop region revealed moderate but structured variability. Half 15 distinct haplotypes were single island, most common was found archipelago, suggesting colonization event followed by limited interisland female gene flow. All N. closely formed star-like structure typical expanded populations. inferred age demographic expansions consistent with arrival founder animals during Holocene, well before first humans inhabited Comparisons population Portugal confirmed not that all lineages unique also current levels diversity surprisingly high for an insular species. Our data imply has conservation value. argue geographical patterns structuring indicate existence two management units.