Does behavioural plasticity contribute to differences in population genetic structure in wild rabbit populations in arid and semi-arid Australia?

摘要: The European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, was introduced to Australia in 1859 and quickly became a significant vertebrate pest species the country across wide distribution. In arid semi-arid environments, rabbit populations exist as metapopulations - undergoing frequent extinction recolonisation cycles. Previous studies identified population genetic structuring at regional level between habitat heterogeneity suggested possible causal factor. For most part, behaviour has been overlooked factor that could contribute explaining structure environments. This study utilised combination of sampling techniques simulated territorial intrusion approach observing wild component compared samples from each region using four polymorphic microsatellite loci. behavioural examined variation territoriality exhibited by three towards rabbits known versus unknown origins (resident vs transgressor (simulating dispersal)). A difference observed determined nuclear markers regions, which supports findings previous research mitochondrial DNA data same area. Additionally, differences aggressive response were parts region, together with effects connectivity may explain structure. Knowledge plasticity its effect on relative dispersal success improved management control feral within Australia; assist conservation efforts species' natural range Europe.