Genetic variability and population structure of the endangered golden sun moth, Synemon plana

Allozyme electrophoresis was used to assess levels of genetic variation and diversity and investigate patterns of population structure in the endanger ed golden sun moth, Synemon plana. Twenty populations were sampled from thr oughout the geographic range of the species. Levels of genetic Variation wi thin most populations were lower than that observed in other lepidopteran s pecies. The evidence suggests that this level of variation may have resulte d from population bottlenecks and founder events following habitat fragment ation. Five distinct groups of S. plana populations have been identified wh ich correspond closely with geographic location. One of these groups may be sufficiently different genetically to be regarded as a separate subspecies or race. These five groupings should be treated as separate units for cons ervation management. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.