Demographic history of the Dinaric-Balkan grey wolves revealed by mtDNA control region sequences

Abstract

The main aim of this research was to explore demographic history and to find genetic signals of population expansions or bottlenecks in the Dinaric Balkan grey wolf population. Partial fragment of mtDNA control region was amplified and sequenced. Mismatch distribution analyses together with Fu’s Fs and Tajima D neutrality tests were carried out. In addition, the demographic history was inferred using the Bayesian skyline plot (BSP) methodology. Based on our mtDNA sequence analyses, the Dinaric-Balkan wolf population is vertically differentiated into "western" and "eastern" subpopulations. We have found genetic differences between subpopulations which may reflect the different demographic histories. No genetic signal of past or recent population expansion has been detected. Neutrality tests results were significantly positive, suggesting recent population bottlenecks, more pronounced in “western” subpopulation. The Bayesian skyline plot method showed different demographic patterns in subpopulations. We may conclude that both subpopulations have gone through bottlenecks, but their timing might differ and/or the population size decline was larger in “western” subpopulation.