Combining movement and genetic data to assess a forest carnivore's response to forest fragmentation

摘要: Landscape modification is actually recognized as major threat to biodiversity. Habitat loss and habitat fragmentation per se are acknowledged the main negative consequences caused by landscape changes. Especially, modify configuration, creating several areas of lower quality (matrix). The division large continuous patches into smaller surrounded a low permeable matrix, greatly disturbs connectivity across landscape. This movement disruption, among other consequences, impedes gene flow Eventually, this phenomenon will lead populations inbreeding depression genetic diversity, reducing overall population fitness. In order counteract these effects, conservation measures should be implemented. Nevertheless, accurate supported solid scientific knowledge, new research fields, like genetics prove play an important role in conservation. Currently, Mediterranean landscapes dominated agro-forestry systems, where great proportion original forest was transformed agricultural fields. Therefore, specialists, such carnivores, may particularly affected To understand specific features shaping flow, it fundamental accurately quantify resistance that impose flow. Here, taking advantage previously radio-tracking data collected for common genets (which species) system southern Portugal, resource selection function (RSF) estimated objectively assess how variables influenced relatedness. three hypotheses were tested: (1) reveal use more forested when compared with types habitats; (2) parental analysis not present concordant results; (3) models which assume heterogeneity crucial factor influences variation between individuals statistically than simpler (for example, isolation-by-distance isolation-by-barrier models). Seventeen microsatellites successfully genotyped genotyping error rates 74 samples, estimate relatedness individuals. conditional logistic regression equation calculated RSF accordance previous studies, demonstrating select positively high availability ecological resources (montado forests riparian corridors) avoided fields near human disturbance. Despite highway disrupt movements (accordingly data), particular genetically substructured probably due recent construction feature. Thus, did have enough time respond highway. Contrary initial hypotheses, IBD (isolation-by-distance) model competing models, despite presenting correlation values (Mantel r=-0.07; p<0.001). Most samples clustered (non-random sampling) small region holding suitable contiguous FCUP Combining carnivore’s response vi hampered analyses. Since spatially close (increasing probability familiar relationships) favourable area, there variations at level sampled zone. implies different analysed poorly represented distances calculations geographical distance influencing Additionally, corridors dispersal enhancers unsuitable habitats limitations concerning modelling techniques used here, also contributed observed results. Refining methodology employed here future, accounting spatial temporal scales likely describe realistically processes responsible operate, obtain robust very important, if authorities want reduce effects species future..