Genetic Variation across the Historical Range of the Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Molecular Ecology
Volume
11
Issue
4
Publisher
Wiley-Blackwell
Publication Date
2002
First Page
643
Last Page
657
Abstract
Genetic differences within and among naturally occurring populations of wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were characterized across five subspecies’ historical ranges using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis, microsatellite loci and mitochondrial control region sequencing. Current subspecific designations based on morphological traits were generally supported by these analyses, with the exception of the eastern (M. g. silvestris) and Florida (M. g. osceola) subspecies, which consistently formed a single unit. The Gould’s subspecies was both the most genetically divergent and the least genetically diverse of the subspecies. These genetic patterns were consistent with current and historical patterns of habitat continuity. Merriam’s populations showed a positive association between genetic and geographical distance, Rio Grande populations showed a weaker association and the eastern populations showed none, suggesting differing demographic forces at work in these subspecies. We recommend managing turkeys to maintain subspecies integrity, while recognizing the importance of maintaining regional population structure that may reflect important adaptive variation.
Recommended Citation
Mock KE, Theimer TC, Greenberg DL, Rhodes OE Jr., Keim P (2002) Genetic Variation across the Historical Range of the Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Molecular Ecology, 11, 643-657.
Comments
Originally published by Wiley-Blackwell. Publisher's PDF and HTML fulltext available through remote link.
Note: Karen Mock was affiliated with Northern Arizona University at time of publication.