Mitochondrial CO1 genetic structure among breeding sites of Chinese egret (Egretta eulophotes) in South Korea

Abstract

Chinese egret (Egretta eulophotes) is classified as an endangered species (VU, vulnerable) and is limited to Far East. This species breeds especially offshore in China, Russia, and the Korean peninsula. We analyzed partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 of the bird from five major breeding sites in South Korea. The results indicate that there were only 10 mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 haplotypes and that their genetic diversity is very low. In addition, the distribution pattern of the haplotypes is patchy, indicating that at least a population may be distinct in its maternal origin and migration route. The results may be used as a baseline of establishing the conservation program and international cooperation for this species. Keywords: Conservation, Cytochrome c oxidase 1, Genetic diversity, Genetic isolation, Migration