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First evidence of mtDNA sequence differences between Northern Bald Ibises (Geronticus eremita) of Moroccan and Turkish origin

Erster Nachweis von Sequenzunterschieden in der mtDNS zwischen marokkanischen und türkischen Waldrappen (Geronticus eremita)

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Summary

We examined two segments of the mitochondrial genome of Moroccan and Turkish Bald Ibises. One point mutation was consistently discovered in a 307 bp portion of the cytochrome b gene which was population specific. This is the first indication of a genetic differentiation between the two populations. The consequences of this finding for the conservation of the highly endangered bird are discussed. In future captive breeding and releasing programmes, only birds of known origin should be used.

Zusammenfassung

Bei der Untersuchung von zwei Segmenten der mitochondrialen DNS marokkanischer und türkischer Waldrappe konnten wir eine Punktmutation in einem 307 bp langen Abschnitt des Cytochrom b-Gens feststellen. Dies ist der erste Hinweis auf eine genetische Differenzierung zwischen den beiden Populationen. Die Konsequenzen der Ergebnisse für den Schutz dieser stark bedrohten Vogelart werden diskutiert. Bei Zucht- und Auswilderungsprogrammen muss die Herkunft der Tiere zukünftig unbedingt berücksichtigt werden.

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Pegoraro, K., Föger, M. & Parson, W. First evidence of mtDNA sequence differences between Northern Bald Ibises (Geronticus eremita) of Moroccan and Turkish origin. J Ornithol 142, 425–428 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01651340

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