Between the lines: mitochondrial lineages in the heavily managed red deer population of Belarus

Abstract

Abstract Here we report the first thorough genetic characterization of the long understudied red deer population of Belarus in regards to its ancestry according to mtDNA sequence analysis. Employing a 328 base pair segment of the mitochondrial control region (d-loop) from 30 deer specimens of either sex recently harvested across the country, we have discovered 6 haplotypes belonging to 2 of the widely described European red deer lineages, or haplogroups: Iberian (A) and Maraloid (E), clarifying the range limits of both lineages in the region. Combining this data with a comparative analysis of genetic diversity and historical records, we conclude that the Belarusian population of red deer has an artificially mixed origin, though it remains unclear how desirable such a state of the local population is, in terms of sustainable management, use and conservation. Inquiries into ancient DNA are required in order to recognize the lineages closest to the now lost autochthonous population of Belarus.