Genetic differences in the response to landscape fragmentation by a habitat generalist, the bobcat, and a habitat specialist, the ocelot

摘要: The ecology of a species strongly influences genetic variation and population structure. This interaction has important conservation implications because taxa with low dispersal capability inability to use different habitats are more susceptible anthropogenic stressors. Ocelots (Leopardus pardalis albescens) bobcats (Lynx rufus texensis) sympatric in Texas northeastern Mexico; however, their status markedly different. We used 10 microsatellite loci 397-bp segment the mitochondrial control region examine how historical ecological differences these two have influenced current patterns diversity landscape heavily altered by activities. Substantially higher (heterozygosity haplotype diversity) connectivity was observed for comparison ocelots. level divergence among proximate ocelot populations ( 100 km. Ocelot US never recovered from reductions experienced during twentieth century, substantial isolation exacerbated strong preference dense native thornshrub avoidance open habitat. In contrast, despite continued legal harvesting frequent road-related mortality, maintained wide distribution, high abundance, connectivity. Our study illustrates that similar niche can still sufficient alter response change. Sensitive species, such as ocelot, require additional actions sustain populations. Ecological occupying guild consider when developing plans.