Patchy population structure in a short‐distance migrant: evidence from genetic and demographic data

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2009.04200.x
• Publication Date: 2009-04-24T15:11:41Z
• Authors: C. MAYER; K. SCHIEGG; G. PASINELLI
• Keywords: Metapopulation; Extinction (optical mineralogy); Local extinction; Occupancy

Species often occur in subdivided populations as a consequence of spatial heterogeneity the habitat. To describe organization subpopulations, existing theory proposes three main population models: patchy population, metapopulation and isolated populations. These models differ their predicted levels connectivity among risk that subpopulation will go extinct. However, spatially discrete subpopulations are commonly considered to be organized metapopulations, even though explicit tests assumptions rare. Here, we test predictions on basis demographic genetic data, combined approach so far surprisingly little used mobile organisms. From 2002 2005, studied nine wetland-restricted reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) southeastern part Canton Zurich (Switzerland), from which local declines this species have been reported. wetlands small 2.7 ha separated through intensively agricultural landscapes. Demographic data consisted dispersal colour-banded individuals immigration rates extinction-/recolonization dynamics. Genetic were based distribution variability gene flow derived analysis microsatellite loci. Both revealed model best described subpopulations. High high into admixture suggested extinction both entire population. This study exemplifies idea may ways other than metapopulation, hence has implications for conservation species.