Use of DNA fingerprinting in planning a breeding program for the riverine rabbit (Bunolagus monticularis)
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1994 |
Authors: |
S. M. Dippenaar, J. W. H. Ferguson |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
genetic management, inbreeding, lagomorphs |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1430130305.abs The riverine rabbit (Bunolagus monticularis) is an endangered and endemic species found within a small geographic range in semiarid southern Africa. A captive breeding program has been initiated for reintroducing rabbits into suitable but vacant habitat. DNA fingerprinting was used to identify individuals within a captive group suitable for inclusion in a larger captive breeding program. This methodology allowed the ranking of suitabilities of these individuals, and the results emphasize the need to capture wild rabbits over a wide geographic area for setting up a larger founder population. A statistical technique for inferring linkage between fingerprint probes was used. Fingerprinting methodology allowed a genetic basis for planning the captive breeding program. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.