Using genetics to plan black rat (Rattus rattus) management in Fernando de Noronha archipelago, Brazil

Genetic analysis reveals that black rat populations on two islands within the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, Brazil, exhibit significant differentiation with minimal or no gene flow between them. This finding suggests that if rats were eradicated from Rata Island, reinvasion from the main island is unlikely. The study employed D-Loop sequences and 14 microsatellite markers to assess genetic connectivity, providing critical insights for targeted conservation efforts. These results support the implementation of a rat eradication program on Rata Island, following the success of a similar initiative on nearby Meio Island.

Gatto-Almeida, F., Pichlmueller, F., Micheletti, T., Abrahão, C. R., Mangini, P. R., & Russell, J. C. (2020). Using genetics to plan black rat (Rattus rattus) management in Fernando de Noronha archipelago, Brazil. Perspectives in Ecology and Conservation, 18(1), 44–50. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pecon.2020.01.001