We used nucleotide sequence data from a mitochondrial DNA fragment to characterize variation within the endangered Lower Keys marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris hefneri). We observed 5 unique mitochondrial haplotypes across different sampling sites in the Lower Florida Keys, USA. Based on the frequency of these haplotypes at different geographic locations and relationships among haplotypes, we observed 2 distinct clades or groups of sampling sites (western and eastern clades). These 2 groups showed low levels of gene flow. Regardless of their origin, marsh rabbits from the Lower Florida Keys can be separated into 2 genetically distinct management units, which should be considered prior to implementation of translocations as a means of offsetting recent population declines.
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1 April 2009
Population Structure of the Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit as Determined by Mitochondrial DNA Analysis
Amanda L. Crouse,
Rodney L. Honeycutt,
Robert A. McCleery,
Craig A. Faulhaber,
Neil D. Perry,
Roel R. Lopez
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Journal of Wildlife Management
Vol. 73 • No. 3
April 2009
Vol. 73 • No. 3
April 2009
Florida Keys
genetic
marsh rabbit
mitochondrial DNA
population structure
Sylvilagus palustris hefneri.
