Patterns of Genetic Polymorphism in Five Species of Penguins

Abstract

Conservation programs benefit from increased knowledge of the basic biology and systematics of endangered species (Haig et al. 1990). This study fo- cuses on relationships in the genus Spheniscus, which includes: Jackass Penguin (S. demersus), Galapagos Penguin (S. mendiculus), Humboldt Penguin (S. hum- boldti), and Magellanic Penguin (S. magellanicus). The first three taxa are considered threatened or endan- gered (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1990, 1993). However, Jackass, Humboldt, and Magellanic pen- guins are quite abundant in captivity, making this group well-suited for genetic and behavioral studies. In addition to facilitating penguin research, captiv- ity has led to mixed-species exhibits and interbreed- ing between Spheniscus species. Fertile hybrids be- tween Jackass and Humboldt penguins and between Humboldt and Magellanic penguins have been re- ported in captivity (Conway 1965, Araya 1983). This raises questions concerning the species status of mem- bers of this group.