Genetic variability in peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) analysed by microsatellites.

• Genetic variability and population structure in the endangered Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) were studied using DNA microsatellite markers. Special emphasis was placed on the subspecies F.p.peregrinus living in Scandinavia and Scotland. The species was almost extirpated as a breeding bird in southeastern Norway and southwestern Sweden in the 1970´s before a recovery programme was initiated. We compared the level of genetic variability of peregrines from the southern area to those found in the northern part of Scandinavia where the decline was less severe. For comparative purposes, three North American peregrine subspecis (F.p.tundrius, F.p.pealei, F.p. anatum) and one Tasmania subspecies (F.p. macropus) were included in this analyses. Twelve DNA microsatellite loci (developed from the peregrine falcon) were analysed across a total of 146 individuals. The amount of genetic variation did not differ in the peregrine populations, except for Tasmania with a significant lower genetic variability. Significant genetic differentiation was found between populations in northern and southern Scandinavia and between the Scandinavian and Scottish populations, while the populations in south-western Norway and south-eastern Sweden did not differ significantly. Analysis of cliff nesting peregrines in northern Sweden and bog nesting peregrines in northern Finland/Sweden suggests that the difference in nesting habitat is not associated with genetic differentiation. Population structuring in F.p.peregrinus is further supported by an assignment test, wherein simulated genotypes are correctly assigned to the northern and southern Scandinavian and Scottish populations with relatively high probabilities, and by analysis of allele-sharing among individuals. Cluster analyses of genetic distances grouped populations of peregrines in accordance with their subspecific designation. F.p.macropus clusters distinctly from the other four subspecies, and peregrines on either side of the Atlantic Ocean were clearly separated. Except for the Tasmanian population, the markers show a high resolving power for parentage and identity analysis, confirming their usefulness as a tool for various research and management purposes over a range of populations and subspecies.

Ämnesord

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Biologi -- Ekologi (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Biological Sciences -- Ecology (hsv//eng)

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Biologi -- Genetik (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Biological Sciences -- Genetics (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

genetic variability

microsatellites

peregrine falcon

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