Genetic diversity of the Common Black Hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus) population in Los Tuxtlas, Mexico, based on microsatellite markers

Abstract

The Common Black Hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus) is a raptor associated with wetlands. Many of its populations are in decline as a consequence of habitat loss and degradation. However, there are no published studies on the genetic variation of their populations. We characterize for the first time the genetic variation of a population of B. anthracinus in southern Veracruz, Mexico. We used feathers from 19 individuals to extract DNA and amplify and genotype 9 microsatellite loci. Samples were collected from nests (n = 4), at feeding sites (n = 5), and directly from chicks (n = 2), young individuals (n = 7), and 1 adult. Six out of 9 microsatellites were polymorphic and 3 monomorphic for this population. The highest number of alleles (n = 7) was observed at the BswD107w, with an average of 4.2 alleles per polymorphic locus. Mean observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.41 and 0.53, respectively. These values are on the lower end of those found for other birds of prey, but there is no evidence of high levels of inbreeding in the population. The polymorphic microsatellite loci analyzed in this study provide a useful tool to continue characterizing the genetic variation of B. anthracinus populations and evaluate possible inter-population differences.