The study of genetic diversity of brown hare population (Lepus europaeus pallas, 1778) in Poland using microsatellite genotyping

The brown hare is one of the most popular representatives game species in Poland. These animals provide an important part in the food chain for many species of predators. Unfortunately, the brown hare populations have decreased drastically in Poland due to many threats. These animals are currently threatened with extinction, so a protection plans are necessary. Previous analyses of brown hares in Poland based only on mtDNA sequence variability. The aim of this study was to detect genetic diversity and population structure of brown hares in Poland using microsatellite. A total of 140 brown hares were collected from seven different regions in south-eastern Poland and 12 microsatellite loci was analyzed. A total number of 140 alleles were identified. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 3 (Sol33Le) to 23 (Sol30Le). From the pool of all identified alleles, 41 (29.2%) were unique for given regions. The average expected and observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.29 to 0.91 and 0.33 to 1.00, respectively. The highest genetic distance was found between the regions: Lublin and Kielce, while the lowest was detected between Bialobrzegi and Kazimierza \Vielka. The Structure program and unrooted phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the seven population of hare is largely divided into three to two different clades. The results reveal unique genetic variation in hare populations in south-eastern Poland and provide critical information for the conservation of this species.. Our research point to consider the conservation of the brown hare population in Poland and habitat restoration and a net of ecological corridors, which could help the survival and expansion of threatened hare population in Poland.

Automated summary

The brown hare is a popular game species in Poland, but its populations have drastically decreased and are currently threatened with extinction. This study used microsatellite analysis to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of brown hares in south-eastern Poland, revealing unique genetic variation. Conservation measures such as protecting populations, restoring habitats, and establishing ecological corridors are recommended.