Stabilizing selection and mitochondrial heteroplasmy in the Canada lynx (.

Mitochondrial DNA is commonly used in population genetic studies to investigate spatial structure, intraspecific variation, and phylogenetic relationships. The control region is the most rapidly evolving and largest non-coding region, but its analysis can be complicated by heteroplasmic signals of genome duplication in many mammals, including felids. Here, we describe the presence of heteroplasmy in the control region of Canada lynx () through intra-individual sequence variation.

POPULATION DYNAMICS OF ENTERIC PARASITES IN THE ENDANGERED VANCOUVER ISLAND MARMOT (MARMOTA VANCOUVERENSIS).

Enteric parasites can have wide-ranging effects throughout an ecosystem, often driving coevolutionary and ecological processes. Parasites have long been overlooked in conservation efforts because of the negative impact inflicted on their hosts; however, parasites make up a significant component of Earth's biodiversity and host conservation efforts need to be parasite inclusive. The Vancouver Island marmot (VIM), Marmota vancouverensis, is an endangered alpine rodent endemic to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

Molecular phylogenetics and systematics of two enteric helminth parasites ( and ) in the Vancouver Island marmot ().

Island biogeography can promote rapid diversification and speciation via geographic isolation and novel selection pressures. These same factors can threaten the persistence of island endemics by limiting gene flow and suitable habitat. Host-parasite interactions on islands introduce another dimension of complexity as both species must simultaneously adapt to exogenous and endogenous factors.

Continuous video capture, and pollinia tracking, in (Orchidaceae) reveal new insect visitors and potential pollinators.

Orchids often have specific pollinators, which should provide reproductive isolation, yet many produce natural hybrids. and differ in floral morphology but often co-occur, overlap in flowering, and are reputed parents of . We used motion-triggered video detection units to monitor floral visitors of and on Vancouver Island, Canada.

Genetic management on the brink of extinction: sequencing microsatellites does not improve estimates of inbreeding in wild and captive Vancouver Island marmots ().

Unlabelled: Captive breeding is often a last resort management option in the conservation of endangered species which can in turn lead to increased risk of inbreeding depression and loss of genetic diversity. Thus, recording breeding events via studbook for the purpose of estimating relatedness, and facilitating mating pair selection to minimize inbreeding, is common practice. However, as founder relatedness is often unknown, loss of genetic variation and inbreeding cannot be entirely avoided.