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Extensive population decline in the Tasmanian devil predates European settlement and devil facial tumour disease
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 05:44 authored by Bruniche-Olsen, A, Menna JonesMenna Jones, Austin, JJ, Christopher BurridgeChristopher Burridge, Barbara HollandBarbara HollandThe Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) was widespread in Australia during the Late Pleistocene but is now endemic to the island of Tasmania. Low genetic diversity combined with the spread of devil facial tumour disease have raised concerns for the species’ long-term survival. Here, we investigate the origin of low genetic diversity by inferring the species' demographic history using temporal sampling with summary statistics, full-likelihood and approximate Bayesian computation methods. Our results show extensive population declines across Tasmania correlating with environmental changes around the last glacial maximum and following unstable climate related to increased ‘El Niño–Southern Oscillation’ activity.
Funding
Australian Research Council
History
Publication title
Biology LettersVolume
10Issue
11Article number
20140619Number
20140619Pagination
1-5ISSN
1744-9561Department/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
The Royal Society PublishingPlace of publication
United KingdomRights statement
Copyright 2014 The Author(s)Repository Status
- Restricted