A genetic analysis of grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) populations in Ireland

Abstract

The grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is an invasive rodent in Ireland that has had detrimental impacts on the native Irish red squirrel (S. vulgaris) as well as on silviculture. This invasive species spread rapidly throughout Ireland, but in recent years appears to be declining in certain areas of the country. This study analysed the genetic profile of grey squirrel populations in Ireland to gain insight into their introduction, evolutionary history in Ireland, and vulnerability to management strategies. The genetic diversity and population structure of eight grey squirrel populations in Ireland was assessed using 11 species-specific microsatellite loci, and was compared to a small population from Tennessee, U.S.A., part of the native range of the grey squirrel. This is the first time these microsatellite markers developed specifically for grey squirrels have been used to study the species in Ireland. We found low to moderate genetic diversity overall across Irish populations as well as the presence of inbreeding. One population in particular, (in Co. Kildare), was differentiated from all other populations, which could indicate genetic isolation between Irish populations or a secondary introduction of S. carolinensis to Ireland.