Defining spatial genetic structure and management units for vulnerable koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) populations in the Sydney region, Australia

Research identifies three genetically distinct koala populations in the Greater Blue Mountains Area, Australia, with varying levels of genetic diversity and differentiation. The study found moderate to high genetic differentiation (Fst = 0.141–0.224) among these populations, highlighting the impact of landscape features such as military reserves and urban developments on gene flow. Notably, a population in the Blue Mountains exhibited high genetic diversity comparable to the highest recorded in koala populations, while the Campbelltown population showed signs of recent bottlenecking with reduced effective population size (16–21). The findings underscore the need for tailored management strategies to address demographic separation and potential barriers to gene flow, including the preservation or modification of military reserves to facilitate connectivity between populations.

Lee, T., Zenger, K. R., Close, R. L., Jones, M., & Phalen, D. N. (2010). Defining spatial genetic structure and management units for vulnerable koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) populations in the Sydney region, Australia. Wildlife Research, 37(2), 156–165. https://doi.org/10.1071/wr09134