Genetic variability in groups of white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) of the Emas National Park using RAPD markers (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA)

Abstract

Nowadays, the analysis of genetic variability has a highlighted roll in the definition of conservation strategies and natural populations management. In this context, the goal of this study was to evaluate the pattern of genetic variability on Tayassu pecari groups from Emas National Park, using RAPD markers. DNA from 182 individuals, distributed among eight groups, were extracted and used to amplify 10 primers previously selected through PCR. The obtained data were used to estimate the magnitude and distribution of variability within and among the groups using AMOVA. In order to analyze, in an explicit way, the patterns of spatial variation patterns, Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was estimated between the matrix of genetic distances and geographic among the groups, considering their central area of life, estimated from telemetry data. From the ten primers, 129 loci were obtained, which 88% (114) were polymorphic, ranging between 37% and 78% in the groups. The value of ?sT obtained from AMOVA was equal to 0.11 (P < 0.0001 - 10000 permutations); a high value considering the only local population distributed in regional scale. Distances among pares of groups (?sT) ranged between 4% and 29%, illustrating the heterogeneity of variability on spatial scale.

Key words: Tayassu pecari, RAPD, genetic variability.