Population Genetics of the American Crocodile in Coiba National Park, Panama

A genetic analysis of the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Coiba National Park, Panama, revealed three spatially overlapping genetic clusters across eight localities, indicating fine-scale population subdivisions. The study, which analyzed 143 individuals using highly polymorphic microsatellite loci, found an average of 6.8 alleles per locus with a total of 61 alleles reported. These findings suggest that the Panamanian government should incorporate this genetic structure data into conservation programs to better protect the species within the park. The research highlights the importance of population genetics in informing conservation strategies for threatened or endangered species.

Bashyal, A. (2012). Population Genetics of the American Crocodile in Coiba National Park, Panama. Unpublished. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.10110.13126