Genetic diversity and structure in Arizona pronghorn following conservation efforts

Abstract

Arizona pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) population numbers have declined over the last century due to unregulated-harvest, population fragmentation, urban expansion, and habitat loss. Captive breeding, reintroductions, and translocations have helped to curb decline and boost population numbers of the endangered Sonoran subspecies (A. a. sonoriensis). To assess the effect of on-going management actions on the Sonoran subspecies, we collected multi-locus genotype data and performed tests of genetic differentiation and population structure in comparison to the non-endangered American subspecies (A. a. americana). We provide updated estimates of genetic diversity and relatedness to serve as a benchmark for future management toward further recovery of Sonoran pronghorn. Management actions have upheld distinction between the two subspecies in Arizona and stemmed further genetic diversity loss while avoiding an increase in inbreeding within the captive-bred Sonoran population.