Conservation and genetics of New Zealand parakeets

Abstract

SummaryRecent genetic analysis of New ZealandCyanoramphusparakeets has direct implications for conservation management. A subspecies of Yellow-crowned Parakeet, Forbes's Parakeet C.auriceps forbesi, is genetically distinct from mainland Yellow-crowned Parakeets C.a. auricepsand should be elevated to species status. Even amongst mainland populations of Yellow-crowned Parakeets there was extensive genetic diversity. Interspecific hybridization is a major concern ofCyanoramphusconservation. The near-extinction of Forbes's Parakeets by genetic swamping through hybridization with Chatham Islands Red-crowned Parakeets C.novaezelandiae chathamensishas been averted by active management, involving culling of hybrid and Red-crowned Parakeets and habitat enhancement. Despite two decades of hybridization between these species a distinct Forbes genetic type still exists, probably due to a tendency for hybrids to backcross with Red-crowned Parakeets. Hybridization betweenCyanoramphusspecies may also be a problem in other highly modified habitats, such as parts of the Auckland Islands. More information is needed to determine the extent of this problem. Captive populations include a significant proportion of interspecific hybrids and therefore should not be used as founder stock for releases into the wild, as has been done in the past. The Orange-fronted Parakeet should be reinstated as a separate species,Cyanoramphus malherbi, rather than a colour morph of Yellow-crowned Parakeet, at least until conclusive evidence is available to resolve the question of its taxonomic status. The conservation of this very rare species (and indeed all species ofCyanoramphus)- has been severely handicapped by lack of scientific information on which to base management decisions.