Cross-utility of microsatellite markers across species of the African <i>Poicephalus</i> parrots to encourage conservation research

Abstract

The genus Poicephalus is one of four genera of parrots found on the African continent. However, little is known about this group of parrots as few studies have been undertaken in the wild and they remain one of the least studied groups of parrots. Decisions on their conservation status and determining appropriate trade quotas are often based on very limited information. Observing and collecting ecological and behavioural data on parrots in their natural habitat is difficult and accordingly the data from wild populations are limited. Genetic markers provide a potential method to obtain data on a species’ ecology, e.g. effective population size and reproductive behaviour, which can assist conservation management. However, developing or screening genetic markers for such investigations can be costly and time consuming and is not guaranteed; these constraints may deter researchers from considering or including them in proposals. This study has characterised 17 microsatellite loci across most species of the African Poicephalus parrots in order to encourage researchers to collect samples and/or to develop genetic studies for Poicephalus parrots. Additional knowledge from wild populations will benefit these little-known parrots.

OSTRICH 2011, 82(1): 65–70