Genetic variation and population structure of the endangered Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus): implications for conservation

Abstract

The Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) is one of 14 endangered species in the family Psittacidae occurring in Brazil, with an estimated total population of 6,500 specimens. We used nuclear molecular markers (single locus minisatellites and microsatellites) and 472 bp of the mitochondrial DNA control region to characterize levels of genetic variability in this species and to assess the degree of gene flow among three nesting sites in Brazil (Pantanal do Abobral, Pantanal de Miranda and Piauí). The origin of five apprehended specimens was also investigated. The results suggest that, in comparison to other species of parrots, Hyacinth Macaws possess relatively lower genetic variation and that individuals from two different localities within the Pantanal (Abobral and Miranda) belong to a unique interbreeding population and are genetically distinct at nuclear level from birds from the state of Piauí. The analyses of the five apprehended birds suggest that the Pantanal is not the source of birds for illegal trade, but their precise origin could not be assigned. The low genetic variability detected in the Hyacinth Macaw does not seem to pose a threat to the survival of this species. Nevertheless, habitat destruction and nest poaching are the most important factors negatively affecting their populations in the wild. The observed genetic structure emphasizes the need of protection of Hyacinth Macaws from different regions in order to maintain the genetic diversity of this species.

Conserving the Diversity of Ecological Interactions: The Role of Two Threatened Macaw Species as Legitimate Dispersers of “Megafaunal” Fruits

“…Not only have population sizes decreased drastically in recent decades but so have their distribution ranges. The HM, with a global population estimated at 6500 individuals, is now restricted to three regions of Pantanal, Cerrado, and Amazonia with probably low or even null genetic flow among them [85]. The range contraction of Lear's macaw is even more striking; from an original potential distribution through the Caatinga biome, which covers ca.…”

Non-invasive genetic sampling for molecular sexing and microsatellite genotyping of hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)

“…CHD-1 ; Griffiths et al , 1998; Bantock et al , 2008). Such data was also produced for chicks of hyacinth macaw, Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (Faria and Miyaki, 2006; Faria et al , 2007), which is a large and vulnerable parrot species whose adults cannot be easily caught in the wild. Notwithstanding, it would be important to have genetic and sex data for adults, and especially so, it would be important to access the DNA of social parents to test if they are the actual biological parents.…”

A Review of Microsatellite Markers and their Application on Genetic Diversity Studies in Parrots

“…DNA markers that have distinct inheritance patterns and evolutionary rates can be used to elucidate different aspects of an species biology and, in the case of Ara araruna, male-biased dispersal and female philopatry could better explain the different patterns observed with microsatellites and mtDNA [43]. A population genetic structure study was also performed in Hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthus), using both mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite loci revealing the existence of two distinct genetic groups in Brazil [44].…”