Population structure of red-cockaded woodpeckers (Picoides borealis) in south Florida: RAPDs revisited

Molecular Ecology
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Abstract

Six south Florida populations of the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) were sampled to examine genetic diversity and population structure in the southernmost portion of the species' range relative to 14 previously sampled populations from throughout the species range. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analyses were used to evaluate the populations (n= 161 individuals, 13 primers, one band/primer). Results suggested that south Florida populations have significant among-population genetic differentiation (FST= 0.17, P < 0.000), although gene flow may be adequate to offset drift (Nm= 1.26). Comparison of Florida populations with others sampled indicated differentiation was less in Florida (FST for all populations = 0.21). Cluster analyses of all 20 populations did not reflect complete geographical predictions, although clustering of distant populations resulted in a significant correlation between genetic distance and geographical distance. Overall, results suggest populations in south Florida, similar to the remainder of the species, have low genetic diversity and high population fragmentation. Exact clustering of distant populations supports the ability of RAPDs to differentiate populations accurately. Our results further support past management recommendations that translocations of birds among geographically proximate populations is preferable to movement of birds between distant populations.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Population structure of red-cockaded woodpeckers (Picoides borealis) in south Florida: RAPDs revisited
Series title Molecular Ecology
DOI 10.1111/j.1365-294X.1996.tb00369.x
Volume 5
Issue 6
Publication Date June 28, 2008
Year Published 1996
Language English
Publisher Wiley
Contributing office(s) Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Description 10 p.
First page 725
Last page 734
Country United States
State Florida
Other Geospatial south Florida
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