Friday, January 19, 2007
Genetic Study May Assist with Salamander Conservation Strategy
Southern torrent salamanders live primarily in small streams in the Coast Range mountains from northern Oregon to northern California. Concern that clear-cutting and thinning of forests might negatively impact the species led to their protection under the Northwest Forest Plan. The salamanders were recently found to be "not warranted for listing" under the U.S. Endangered Species Act due to lack of genetic information. In a new publication, USGS scientists and colleagues report on results of a genetic diversity study that may assist with the development of conservation strategies for the species. Genetic markers identified three main groups of salamanders living in non-overlapping areas separated by major rivers. Initial focus on preserving high-priority habitats for these groups may enhance their conservation.
Miller, M.P., Haig, S.M., Wagner, R.S., 2006, Phylogeography and spatial genetic structure of the southern torrent salamander- Implications for conservation and management: Journal of Heredity, v. 97, no. 6, p. 561-570. [FullText] Catalog No: 1704
Contact:
Susan
Haig,
541-750-7482,
susan_haig@usgs.gov
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