Low neutral genetic diversity in isolated Greater Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) populations in northwest Wyoming

摘要: ABSTRACT Identifying small, isolated populations is a conservation priority, not only because isolation may result in negative fitness consequences, but these also harbor unique genetic diversity. The Greater Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) widespread obligate species of the sagebrush biome western North America that has experienced range-wide contraction over past century. To prevent local extirpation, efforts have been made to identify populations. Here, we analyzed 16 microsatellite loci from 300 individuals assess structure among Wyoming and southeast Montana, particularly with Jackson Hole Gros Ventre northwest Wyoming. Four clusters were observed Pinedale (central-west) Casper (central) forming cluster, Powder River Basin (central-north) Montana second both distinct population cluster...