Abstract
A panel of DNA microsatellite markers was developed in order to simultaneously analyze multiple genetic loci in the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). These markers were multiplexed and visualized on an automated fluorescence detection system. Genetic markers at 21 unlinked loci were used to estimate heterozygosity, allelic variation and allele sharing within a semi-enclosed population of white-tailed deer. These markers demonstrated high heterozygosity (0.719) and alleles/locus (8.14) in the study population. Multi-locus genotypes were also established in 4 disparate populations from Texas and Oklahoma in order to evaluate the relationship between geographic proximity and genetic subdivision. Analyses of genetic variance between these populations resulted in relationships that were in accordance with predictions based on the geographic distance between groups. Finally, genetic exclusion was performed on an enclosed population of white-tailed deer using maximum likelihood estimation and a simulation procedure to establish levels of error for each assignment. Maternity and paternity were evaluated separately, and potential parent/offspring pairs were produced at a high level of confidence (>95 %). This panel of markers is suitable for high-throughput genotyping and will be useful in discerning genetic relationships of white-tailed deer at the population and familial level.
Anderson, Joel David (2003). A genetic approach to the study of population structure in white-tailed deer :: evidence from the Noble Foundation Wildlife Unit. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -2003 -THESIS -A54.