Genetic variation of red deer populations under hunting exploitation in southwestern Spain

We analyzed the distribution of genetic variation at 6 microsatellite loci in heavily hunted populations of red deer (Cervus elaphus) in southwestern Spain. Sonic hunting estates are surrounded by high mesh fences that prevent deer from leaving the estate. The primary purpose Of Our Study was to assess whether differences exist in the degree of genetic variation in fenced versus open estates, as well as between hunting estates in comparison with a protected population in Donana National Park. Another purpose of the study was to estimate the extent of population differentiation. There is a significant subdivision of genetic variation; most populations studied showed a significant heterozygote deficit and positive F-IS values. Genetic variation is lower in hunting-estate populations than in the protected population, but no differences exist in the level of genetic variation between populations in open and fenced estates, although Open Populations have smaller effective Population sizes. Our analyses confirm population subdivision at different geographical scales. Population differentiation occurs at a local scale between nearby hunting estates but does not follow an isolation-by-distance model. The mating system of red deer and random drift due to hunting probably are responsible for the differentiation of nearby populations, the loss of variability, and some degree of inbreeding.