NCEP Exercise- Conservation Genetics: Inbreeding, Fluctuating Asymmetry and Captive Breeding

Conservation genetics is central to successful captive breeding and subsequent re-introduction of threatened species. Many species have been saved from extinction by captive breeding programs, which provide a safety net when other protective measures have failed. However, costs/space limitations and bringing a species into captivity means having to manage small populations. Under these conditions inbreeding and genetic drift become important considerations. Captive management involves careful analysis of breeding programs, construction of pedigrees, and monitoring inbreeding effects. One external manifestation of inbreeding is sometimes a change in body symmetry, which can be evaluated using morphological measurement of captive individuals. This exercise focuses on these issues and integrates concepts in conservation genetics using captive breeding programs. Additional teaching materials on topics relating to biodiversity conservation and ecology can be obtained free of charge by registering at the Network for Conservation Educators and Practitioners’ website (http://ncep.amnh.org).