Population Analysis of Kinosternon Scorpioides using SSR markers.

Three natural populations of Kinosternon scorpioides located in the region of Baixada Maranhense were studied in order to quantify and compare levels of diversity and genetic structure using SSR markers. Ten microsatellite loci were validated for analysis in 56 individuals. The observed heterozygosities (Ho) were 0.838; 0.691 and 0.741 and the expected (He) 0.824; 0.819 and 0.815 for the populations of São Bento, Pinheiro and Anajatuba, respectively. AMOVA test showed that 98.97% of the total genetic variation is within populations while 1.03% is among populations. The estimated gene flow of 6,882 corroborates the small population differentiation (FST = 0.044). The populations of São Bento and Pinheiro are closer together genetically, according to the presented grouping analysis. These genetic data are important for the elaboration of strategic actions of management and conservation of the chelonians and especially Kinosternon scorpioides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]