A novel holistic framework for genetic‐based captive‐breeding and reintroduction programs

• DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12699
• Publication Date: 2016-02-20T14:41:52Z
• Authors: C.R.M. Attard; L.M. Möller; M. Sasaki; M.P. Hammer; C.M. Bice; C.J. Brauer; D.C. Carvalho; J.O. Harris; L.B. Beheregaray
• Keywords: Captive breeding; Genetic monitoring; Captivity; Conservation Genetics

Research in reintroduction biology has provided a greater understanding of the often limited success species reintroductions and highlighted need for scientifically rigorous approaches programs. We examined recent genetic-based captive-breeding literature to showcase underuse genetic data gathered. devised framework that takes full advantage through assessment makeup populations before (past component framework), during (present component), after (future component) events understand their conservation potential maximize success. empirically applied our two small fishes: Yarra pygmy perch (Nannoperca obscura) southern australis). Each these locally adapted geographically isolated lineage is endemic highly threatened lower Murray-Darling Basin Australia. These were rescued Australia's decade-long Millennium Drought, when persistence became entirely dependent on subsequent efforts. Using historical demographic analyses, we found differences similarities between impacts past natural anthropogenic occurred situ, such as European settlement component). Subsequently, successful maintenance diversity captivity-despite skewed brooder contribution offspring-was achieved carefully managed breeding Finally, monitoring revealed survival recruitment released captive-bred offspring wild Our holistic requires no additional collection typically gathered programs, applicable wide range species, advances considerations expected improve with use next-generation sequencing technology.