SREL Reprint #2054

Genetic structure among subpopulations of the eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris)

Michelle D. Boone and Olin E. Rhodes, Jr.

Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, South Carolina 29802

Abstract: Genetic differences were documented among four wintering flocks of the eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) located on the Savannah River Site in Aiken County, South Carolina. Five of 12 loci were polymorphic based on electrophoretic analysis of blood tissue. Allele frequency analysis and F-statistics revealed small but significant genetic differences among flocks. The maintenance of genetic subdivision among flocks was largely attributed to the breeding structure and dispersal behavior of the wild turkey.

SREL Reprint #2054

Boone, M.D. and O.E. Rhodes, Jr. 1996. Genetic structure among subpopulations of the eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris). American Midland Naturalist 135:168-171.

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).