Open AccessGenetic evidence challenges the native status of a threatened freshwater fish ( Carassius carassius ) in England
Author(s) -
Jeffries Daniel L.,
Copp Gordon H.,
Maes Gregory E.,
Lawson Handley Lori,
Sayer Carl D.,
Hänfling Bernd
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
ecology and evolution
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.17
H-Index - 63
ISSN - 2045-7758
DOI - 10.1002/ece3.2831
Subject(s) - threatened species , carassius , conservation status , freshwater fish , endangered species , crucian carp , introduced species , biology , ecology , fishery , wildlife conservation , fauna , population , range (aeronautics) , approximate bayesian computation , geography , habitat , fish <actinopterygii> , demography , sociology , materials science , composite material
A fundamental consideration for the conservation of a species is the extent of its native range, that is, regions naturally colonized. However, both natural processes and human‐mediated introductions can drive species distribution shifts. Ruling out the human‐mediated introduction of a species into a given region is vital for its conservation, but remains a significant challenge in most cases. The crucian carp Carassius carassius (L.) is a threatened freshwater fish thought to be native to much of Europe. However, its native status in England is based only on anecdotal evidence. Here, we devise an approach that can be used to empirically test the native status of English fauna. We use this approach, along with 13 microsatellite loci, population structure analyses, and Approximate Bayesian Computation ( ABC ), to test hypotheses for the origins of C. carassius in England. Contrary to the current consensus, we find strong support for the human‐mediated introduction of C. carassius into England during the 15th century. This result stimulates an interesting and timely debate surrounding motivations for the conservation of species. We discuss this topic, and the potential for continued conservation of C. carassius in England, despite its non‐native origins.