Genetic diversity and structure of Eurasian otters on Kinmen Island

Here we present an analysis of the genetic diversity and structure of wild Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) on Kinmen Island, off the coast of eastern-southern China, as derived from high-quality DNA samples from 40 individuals. Mitochondrial DNA was sequenced at the ND5, CYTb and control regions, revealing zero nucleotide diversity within our wild-sampled individuals. In contrast, genotyping at up to 12 autosomal microsatellite loci determined no deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and no indication of inbreeding depression (F-IS = 0.010). Based on phylogenetic analyses of the mtDNA sequences, alongside those from one individual from Taiwan, four spraint samples from northern Fujian, China (this study), and 11 published sequences, the Kinmen otter population is most genetically similar to a now-extinct population in Taiwan, and forms a monophyletic group with southern Chinese populations. These results may guide a framework for implementing Eurasian otter conservation programs in and around the Kinmen region.

Automated summary

In this study, the genetic diversity and structure of wild Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) on Kinmen Island, China were analyzed using high-quality DNA samples from 40 individuals. Mitochondrial DNA sequencing revealed no nucleotide diversity among the samples. However, genotyping at microsatellite loci showed no deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and no inbreeding depression. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Kinmen otter population is most genetically similar to a now-extinct population in Taiwan and forms a monophyletic group with southern Chinese populations. These findings can inform conservation programs for Eurasian otters in the Kinmen region.