Population genetic structure of a Colombian endemic poison frog Dendrobates truncatus (Anura: Dendrobatidae): A contribution to its conservation

Abstract

The yellow-striped poison frog Dendrobates truncatus is endemic to Colombia. Despite its ecological plasticity and apparent abundance, which led to its classification as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List, it is crucial to objectively assess its conservation status, as the species faces significant threats from habitat modification and destruction, as well as the pet trade. Conservation genetics and phylogeographic approaches can provide valuable insights for such evaluation. To this end, multiple populations across the species' distribution range were genetically analysed using mitochondrial DNA sequences (Cytochrome b) and nuclear DNA markers (microsatellite loci). While mitochondrial data revealed phylogeographic structure with three main genetic groups, nuclear data revealed three or five populations across the species' distribution range. Both markers indicated clear population structure, high genetic diversity and evidence of population expansion. This genetic structure likely results from a combination of ecological, biogeographical and anthropogenic factors. The identified populations represent independent management units, underscoring the need for tailored conservation strategies. These findings provide a foundation for further research and the development of effective management and conservation strategies for the species’ populations. Keywords: conservation, haplotype network, microsatellites, mitochondrial DNA, population expansion, phylogeography