Abstract
Although some African rhinoceros populations are currently increasing, others are critically endangered. Even healthy populations are extensively managed in the wild and in captivity. While political and demographic considerations are of primary concern, many decisions are made in the name of genetic management. Such decisions should be informed by a full understanding of the multiple meanings of inbreeding and effective population size. In this essay, we examine inbreeding and effective size of wild and captive populations of African rhinoceroses. We conclude by showing how misunderstanding of effective size and Franklin's 50/500 rule can make a crucial difference in informing management decisions.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 546-555 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | African Journal of Ecology |
Volume | 47 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Dec 2009 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Effective size
- Genetic management
- Inbreeding
- Rhinoceros
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics