Dispersal in a plain landscape: short-distance genetic differentiation in southwestern Manitoba wolves, Canada

摘要: The effects of human-caused fragmentation require further study in landscapes where physical dispersal barriers and natural ecological transitions can be discounted as causes for population genetic structure. We predict that reduce across such barrier-free because also is limited by a perception risk. Considerable has occurred the Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP) region Manitoba, Canada, during past 60 years. examine data from 13 autosomal microsatellites to determine whether correlated with structure wolves (Canis lupus). Moderate significant differentiation between RMNP cluster identified 30 km farther north (F ST = 0.053, 95% CI [0.031–0.073]) consistent predicted fragmentation. represents at least seven wolf packs followed weekly radio tracking 2003–2006. Distinct mtDNA haplotypes have been no successful documented several multi-year studies since 1974. Tracking indicate some might reluctant leave RMNP. Although influence behaviour local adaptation investigation, appears caused cryptic on fine spatiotemporal scales vagile species is: (1) not influenced movement or historical discontinuities our area, and; (2) able live relatively close humans. Great Plains now an intensely human-managed landscape. Detection could therefore function important indicator conservation management.