Genetic structure and connectivity of Eurasian lynx following recolonization of southern Sweden

Sammanfattning

Connectivity is a key component of conservation genetics, as it enables gene flow, maintains genetic diversity, and reduces the risk of inbreeding. Human-modified and fragmented landscapes can reduce connectivity, limit dispersal, and lead to genetic isolation. This can have consequences for population viability in the long-term. Large carnivores are particularly vulnerable to these processes, since they often occur at low densities, have extensive home ranges, and frequently interact with human-modified landscapes. Understanding how landscape structure influences dispersal and gene flow is hence essential for management and conservation of large carnivores. The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) experienced a severe population decline in Sweden during the 20th century due to extensive hunting. Legal protection and management have enabled its recovery, leading to the recolonization of southern Sweden after a long absence. Previous studies have shown high connectivity within the Swedish population, but the genetic status of lynx in the recolonized region has not been assessed in recent years. This study examines differences in genetic diversity, inbreeding, and genetic differentiation in lynx in the southern and middle management areas in Sweden. It also examines dispersal and landscape effects using genetic data. Results show that lynx in the southern management area in Sweden are well connected to lynx in the middle management area, showcasing high genetic diversity, low inbreeding, and minimal genetic differentiation between the two management regions. Analyses of dispersal distances revealed the ability for long-distance dispersal. Isolation by distance was not detected. Isolation by resistance was weak, but statistically significant, indicating that landscape features influence the movement of lynx to a small degree, without restricting gene flow. Overall, the results show that lynx in southern Sweden are well connected to lynx in the middle of Sweden, highlighting the importance of maintaining connectivity and continued genetic monitoring to support long-term population viability.