A genetic assessment of British populations of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis)

We investigated sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) populations in Britain by gene tic analysis across eight polymorphic microsatellite loci. Genetic diversit y as determined by mean expected heterozygosity was high in all three disti nct regions where the species occurs (Dorset, Surrey and Merseyside), thoug h allelic diversity was lower on Merseyside than in Surrey or Dorset. There was significant genetic differentiation between populations in all three o f these widely separated zones, as judged both by Fst and Rst estimators. A genetic test for population bottlenecks confirmed that in at least two of the areas currently inhabited, Surrey and Merseyside, L. agilis has undergo ne substantial recent declines. The significance of these findings for sand lizard conservation is discussed.