Population Genetic Structure of Aldabra Giant Tortoises

Aldabra giant tortoises exhibit significant population structure despite no variation in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences, suggesting allopatric divergence driven by geographical barriers and ecological partitions. This study analyzed mtDNA control region sequences and microsatellite loci from three locations on Aldabra's two major islands, revealing reduced genetic variability likely due to a founding event during the last interglacial period and historical bottlenecks. While mtDNA showed no variation, nuclear markers indicated population subdivisions, highlighting the influence of ecological factors on tortoise movement and population dynamics in this isolated terrestrial ecosystem.

Balmer, O., Ciofi, C., Galbraith, D. A., Swingland, I. R., Zug, G. R., & Caccone, A. (2010). Population Genetic Structure of Aldabra Giant Tortoises. Journal of Heredity, 102(1), 29–37. https://doi.org/10.1093/jhered/esq096