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These findings have two main implications that researchers have yet to fully explain: (1) since massasaugas appear to be naturally highly structured (compartmentalized) genetically, they may be, in a sense, pre-adapted to inhabiting isolated patches that are cut off from the gene flow of neighbouring populations. This lack of new incoming genetic material may be the norm for them; (2) if a local population is eliminated, little opportunity likely exists for the area to naturally repopulate. If low gene flow indicates low dispersal this is a likely conclusion. A potential solution to the snake’s inability to re-populate an area naturally is active management: the translocation of snakes. Scientists have yet to try this procedure with massasaugas, but it has been done for many large mammals in Ontario, such as the Elk. Genetic diversity is
maximized by having unrelated parents. It can keep a population strong
and free of recessive defects (mutations). A potential problem with low
genetic diversity can be “inbreeding depression.” This “inbreeding
depression” can cause weakened immune systems and, possibly, genetic
defects. |
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