DNA evidence for the hybridization of wild turtles in Taiwan : possible genetic pollution from trade animals

Jonathan J. FONG, Tien-Hsi CHEN

Research output: Journal PublicationsJournal Article (refereed)peer-review

47 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Field surveys in Taiwan have uncovered turtles presumed to be hybrids based on their intermediate morphology. We sequenced a mitochondrial (ND4) and nuclear (R35) gene of two putative hybrid individuals, along with representatives of the potential parental species ( Mauremys mutica , M. reevesii , M. sinensis ), to determine their genetic identity. Based on our data, both individuals are hybrids, with independent, recent origins resulting from the mating of a female M. reevesii and a male M. sinensis . Since we question whether the highly traded M. reevesii is endemic to Taiwan, this hybridization could represent human-mediated genetic pollution. We also discuss the implications of our findings on turtle conservation in Taiwan.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2061-2066
Number of pages6
JournalConservation Genetics
Volume11
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Oct 2010
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'DNA evidence for the hybridization of wild turtles in Taiwan : possible genetic pollution from trade animals'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this