The identification of discrete populations through genomic data is a fundamental step toward the delineation of conservation units, which is needed to guide management and conservation efforts. In this study 15 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers were selected to investigate population structure and connectivity of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Irish waters. DNA was extracted from tissue samples collected along the Irish coastline from free-ranging dolphins and dead stranded individuals. Newly generated genetic data was combined with previously published data to obtain the largest sample set ever analysed for the island of Ireland. Results of analysis of genetic diversity were found comparable to findings of previous studies that explored population structure of bottlenose dolphins in the North-East Atlantic. The evidence of bottlenose dolphin’s fine population structure in Irish waters was confirmed; three distinct populations were identified, two residing along the Irish coastline and one presumably living in offshore waters. All three populations showed widely different levels of genetic diversity and demographic dispersion. In particular the two coastal populations, which are protected by means of Special Areas of Conservations (SACs), showed reduced allele diversity and patterns of genetic and demographic isolation. Furthermore, this study provided new insights on population boundaries that indicate the need for a better strategy toward the conservation of bottlenose dolphins in Irish waters by delineating new SACs and expanding the geographical coverage of the already existing ones.
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