Low genetic diversity in captive populations of the critically endangered Blue-crowned Laughingthrush (Garrulax courtoisi) revealed by a panel of novel microsatellites

Abstract

Background. Understanding genetic diversity and population structure is critically important for the conservation and management of endangered species. These factors are particularly relevant for species with small populations and/or restricted ranges, such as the critically endangered Blue-crowned Laughingthrush, Garrulax courtoisi, which has only two wild populations left in Wuyuan, Jiangxi and Simao, Yunnan, China.