Biology subjects

Lamberski, N.

Publications and source records attributed to Lamberski, N..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2026

Dog-assisted scat sampling reveals genetic diversity, structure, and relatedness in black-footed cats (Felis nigripes)

Advances in molecular techniques for non-invasive genetic sampling have strengthened wildlife genetics, enabling researchers to study elusive and difficult-to-study species with minimal disturbance, and conservation detection dogs can greatly increase sample numbers and the area covered. However, this combination is rarely used in Africa and has perhaps never been applied to a small carnivore on the continent. Here we use dog-assisted scat surveys to carry out the first fine-scale population genetic study of the black-footed cat (Felis nigripes), Africa's smallest and most range-restricted endemic felid, and a threatened species for which conventional survey methods are largely ineffective. Using 130 successfully genotyped scat samples (nine microsatellite loci) from two populations about 650 km apart, we identified 65 individuals and assessed genetic diversity and fine-scale relatedness to explore aspects of dispersal and reproductive ecology. Both populations exhibited similar observed heterozygosity (Ho = 0.67-0.69) and allelic richness, with no heterozygote deficit (FIS = -0.02 to -0.08). Differentiation between the southern Namibia and central South Africa sites was low but detectable (FST = 0.03-0.05). We used pairwise relatedness and candidate pedigree results to explore hypotheses about sex-specific relatedness patterns. Female-female dyads were more related than male-male dyads at the shortest distance class (0-2 km), a pattern compatible with female philopatry. There were more half-sibling than full-sibling assignments and uneven representation of candidate fathers, which may indicate polygamy and reproductive skew. These results provide baseline genetic data for a Vulnerable species and show that this approach is feasible for Africa's small, elusive carnivores, whose dispersal, mating systems and population structure remain largely unknown. Broader spatial and temporal sampling could help assess population connectivity and reveal how threats and changing land use impact genetic diversity and structure.

ecology↗

bioRxiv2026

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of the Black-Footed Cat: Insights into Felis's Deadliest Predator

BackgroundBlack-footed cats (Felis nigripes) are one of Africas least studied felines. The population dynamics and demographic history of this solitary species have not been well-described. Reports of ongoing decline of present-day populations resulted in the IUCN Red List categorizing the species as vulnerable to extinction. As populations decline and become isolated from each other, they become susceptible to strong genetic drift and inbreeding, which can lead to the accumulation of deleterious alleles and increased sextinction risk. However, the IUCN cited data deficiencies across the species range as a limitation in this categorization for black-footed cats. In cases where ecological surveys are lacking, range-wide population genomic surveys can improve our understanding of population dynamics. ResultsIn the first genomic study of free-roaming individuals, we sequenced whole genomes of black-footed cats (N=44) from across their distribution. To do so, we incorporated whole genome sequences generated from both modern biological samples and century-old museum specimens. We assembled a highly contiguous reference genome using a combination of PacBio HiFi data and publicly available Hi-C data and investigated the demographic history, population structure, and genetic diversity of wild black-footed cats. We found evidence of historical effective population sizes of [~]11,500 individuals, which is lower than estimates reported in other felid species. Consistent with modest historical population sizes, we found that present-day genome-wide diversity was low ({pi} {approx} 0.0004). However, despite low genetic diversity, we find that black-footed cat genomes do not harbor long runs of homozygosity. Simulation results indicate that low present-day genetic diversity may simply result from modest historical population size. However, other analyses point to evidence of a population contraction in the last 50 generations, which could contribute to future genomic erosion. We also compared genomic variation in populations across the range to evaluate patterns of population structure, finding evidence of higher genetic similarity between individuals in closer geographic proximity. ConclusionOverall, these results provide range-wide information about the demographic history and present-day genetic diversity of an understudied species. Together with analyses of population structure, we speculate that there may be greater connectivity between populations of black-footed cats than previously assumed. Our study underscores the utility of genomic data in providing insights into population dynamics for better conservation management.

evolutionary biology↗

bioRxiv2023

Spatial behaviors and seasonal habitat use of an increasingly endangered Neotropical psittacine, the thick-billed parrot (Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha)

The thick-billed parrot (Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha) inhabits highland pine forests in the Sierra Madre Occidental ranges of northwestern Mexico. Their populations have declined significantly to <2000 individuals due to habitat loss, illegal hunting and increasing predation. Despite their ecological and cultural importance and increasingly endangered status, the species is data deficient. Our study aimed to inform and enhance conservation management strategies for thick-billed parrots with information on their spatial ecology, habitat use, migratory behaviors and social associations. We deployed biotelemetry devices to conduct the first tracking study of wild thick-billed parrots. Our study revealed that thick-billed parrots are seasonal migrators, departing their breeding habitats around October and returning from southern habitats around April. Our research also identified previously unknown overwintering sites and migratory stopover locations, as well as a new nesting site. The parrots exhibited high spatial variability in range shifting behavior, but all tracked parrots exhibited range shifts during migration, with durations of 3 to 181 days and distances of 173 to 765 km. They traveled in close social groups and migratory routes primarily followed high-elevation forests along the Sierra Madre Occidental ranges. Home range analysis indicated smaller breeding site ranges and larger overwintering ranges, possibly reflecting nesting constraints and winter food resource dispersion. Parrot spatial associations favored high-elevation forest landscapes with tall and wide-trunked trees, underscoring the importance of preserving old-growth forests for nesting and foraging. Less than 20 % of parrot habitats have formal regulatory protections. Conservation management efforts must focus on increasing protections for nesting areas, overwintering habitats, and key migratory stopover sites. As climate change exacerbates regional threats, integrated management plans involving local stakeholders and communities are essential for the parrots long-term survival and the preservation of their old-growth forest habitats.

ecology↗