Pedigree‐based assignment tests for reversing coyote (Canis latrans) introgression into the wild red wolf (Canis rufus) population

摘要: The principal threat to the persistence of endangered red wolf (Canis rufus) in wild is hybridization with coyote latrans). To facilitate idengification and removal hybrids, assignment tests are developed which use genotype data estimate identity as coyote, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 or full wolf. genotypes from wolves that founded surviving population resulting pedigree, rather than a contemporary sample. evaluated by analysing both captive at 18 microsatellite loci, simulated under highly parameterized, biologically reasonable model. accuracy rates generally high, over 95% known idengified correctly. There are, however, tradeoffs between ambiguous assignments misassignments, misidengifying hybrids wolves. These result compromise limiting introgression avoiding demographic losses. management priorities level determine combination test strategy best balances these tradeoffs. Ultimately, we conclude has capacity arrest reverse introgression. our knowledge, presented approach novel it accounts for genetic drift when analysis temporally separated reference populations they being assigned. methods may be valuable cases where databases small have aged substantially, pedigree information available generated historical samples.