Genetic variation in the greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis)

Abstract

The taxonomic status of and genetic diversity amongst extant populations of the greater bilby, Macrotis lagotis, were assessed using allozyme electrophoresis. A total of 47 bilbies sampled from three geographic areas and two captive colonies were screened for 42 loci, six of which were polymorphic. The results are consistent with the view that all extant populations represent a single biological species. All populations were genetically very similar (Nei D's 0.000 to 0.004) and overall levels of within-population genetic variability were low (Ho 0.004 ± 0.004 to 0.0026 ± 0.017). The allozyme data support the hypothesis that there has been no significant loss of variability in the captive colonies when compared to the species as a whole.