Review of genetic monitoring programs of wildlife species in Serbia

Abstract

Genetic monitoring, as one of the main aspects in long-term population monitoring, has a crucial role in establishing an effective management strategy and biological conservation of wildlife. Determination and monitoring of genetic variability as well as identification of management units, represents the best estimator of natural population potential for adaptation and survival. Here we present a comparative overview of data obtained through genetic monitoring of three wildlife species in Serbia - brown hares, wild boars and grey wolves. First determination of genetic variability in brown hares from Serbia recommended an optimal three-year monitoring period for this species and continual genetic monitoring has revealed maintenance of moderate genetic diversity over a twenty-year period. Furthermore, it is suggested that future genetic monitoring should encompass more informative molecular markers, such as those linked to adaptive traits. Microsatellite molecular markers have provided much of the required information about the wild boar population. The wild boar is one of the most important game species and is crucial to estimate adequate management measures in order to preserve genetic variability, but also, to prevent possible territorial expansion of the species. Panel of 18 microsatellite loci proved to be very informative when it comes to the grey wolf population. Serbian wolf population is relatively stable for now, but it is very important to maintain appropriate genetic monitoring to preserve this valuable reservoir of genetic variability. The results, obtained through genetic monitoring of these three species in Serbia, support integration of genetic information with other traditional methods for hunting management strategy in order to provide a long-term sustainability.