Y-chromosomal Markers Suitable for Noninvasive Studies of Guenon Hybridization
We examine previously-published TSPY sequence data to identify synapomorphies useful for tracking Y-chromosomal gene flow between hybridizing guenon species.We then describe a set of PCR primers and protocols that amplify many of these variable sites from feces. Such Y-chromosomal markers are potentially very useful to conservation studies because they may offer an early sign of […]
A comparison of aggressive and foraging behaviour between juvenile cutthroat trout, rainbow trout and F1 hybrids
‘Successful’ introduced species are often thought to cause declines or extinctions of native species through competitive superiority. In western North America, introduced rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, have completely replaced many native cutthroat trout, Oncorhynchus clarkii, populations; however, few studies have identified the mechanisms that may allow rainbow trout to outcompete cutthroat trout. We raised Yellowstone […]
Duck’s Not Dead: Does Restocking With Captive Bred Individuals Affect the Genetic Integrity of Wild Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Population?
The genetic integrity of natural populations can be threatened through large-scale introduction of farmed stocks with different genetic or geographic origin. Huge numbers of farm-reared mallard (Anas platyrhynchos, Anatidae) have been introduced into the wild in many European countries since 1970. Czech breeding facilities currently produce around 200–300,000 ducks annually, exceeding wild numbers by around […]
Social Relations in a Mixed Group of Mules, Ponies and Donkeys Reflect Differences in Equid Type
Donkeys and mules are frequently kept as companion animals for horses and ponies, with these different equids often being considered a homogenous group. However, the extent to which domestic equids form inter-specific bonds and display similar social behaviour when living in a mixed herd has not previously been studied. Here we compare the social organization […]