First evidence of deviation from Mendelian proportions in a conservation programme

Classic Mendelian inheritance is the bedrock of population genetics and underpins pedigree-based management animal populations. However, assumptions might not be upheld in conservation breeding programmes if early viability selection occurs, even when efforts are made to equalise genetic contributions breeders. To test this possibility, we investigated deviations from proportions a captive metapopulation endangered Tasmanian devil. This marsupial ideal for addressing evolutionary questions due its large size, range enclosure types (varying environmental conditions), good genomic resources (which aid interpretation), species’ biology. Devil mothers give birth more offspring than they can nurse pouch, providing potential intense amongst embryos. We used data 140 known sire-dam-offspring triads isolate within-family population-level mechanisms (such as mate choice or inbreeding), compared observed genotypes at 123 targeted SNPs neutral (i.e., Mendelian) expectations. found lower heterozygosity expected, subtle patterns that varied across gradient intensity zoo-like enclosures semi-wild environments some loci. Meiotic drive maternal-foetal incompatibilities consistent with our results, although cannot statistically confirm these mechanisms. evidence maternal genotype affects annual litter suggesting family-level driven by differential mortality before during development. Our results show occur programmes, despite best-practice prevent selection.