Desenvolvimento de ferramentas moleculares de ponta para avaliar como a hibridação afeta a adaptação do lobo ibérico a paisagens dominadas pelo Homem

(* Publications by team members) The Iberian wolf holds an evolutionary uniqueness that has only recently been deciphered [9*,14*28*]. This uniqueness may be challenged by the ongoing wolf expansion across most of Europe, which likely increases gene flow with dogs, and with wolves from other geographical regions. Hybridization in both scenarios could disrupt adaptations of the Iberian wolf and lead to the loss of beneficial traits to thrive in human-dominated landscapes, potentially increasing wolf-related social conflicts. Ultimately, if faced in the future with a population decline similar to what led to the past extinction of wolves across Europe, the Iberian wolf could face the same fate in the absence of these advantageous traits. We aim to leverage the genetic information regarding the uniqueness of the Iberian wolf to develop next-gen molecular arrays for identifying Iberian wolves, detecting admixture with dogs and other European wolves, and tracking unique signatures of adaptation, all by using non-invasive samples. Arrays will be developed combining a multidisciplinary approach that integrates population genetics with cutting-edge genomics and behavioral tools, complemented by field and in-silico research. Our SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES are: O1. To design a next-gen single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array for genotyping non-invasive samples for wolf individual identification, detecting wolf-dog hybrids, and differentiating Iberian wolves from those of other origins. The array will include highly differentiated markers for Iberian and European wolves, and dogs, along with specific markers under selection on the Iberian wolf. The array will be optimized for use in non-invasive samples, the ones regularly used in wolf monitoring. Crucially, the array will be developed for universal application in high-throughput sequencing platforms; O2. To establish guidelines regarding the occurrence of gene flow between Iberian wolves and dogs/European wolves, and the presence of the latter in the Iberian wolf range, to facilitate wolf management by the relevant stakeholders, including administrative authorities. Guidelines will be based on effective data obtained through fieldwork and using the next-gen array developed in O1; O3. To build a molecular tool for straightforward and cost-effective detection of fawn (yellow) coat color wolves for management and touristic purposes. This tool will be designed based on unpublished genomic information regarding the gene that confers these wolves a dog-like phenotype, and will be validated for non-invasive samples. We aim to provide the geographical prevalence of fawn wolves in the Iberian Peninsula using available samples, and facilitate the information to stakeholders. Testing our hypothesis on the increased survival rates conferred by the fawn coat color phenotype (through GPS collars deployment) will feed multiple conservation and public awareness actions. This conspicuous trait establishes an emotional link with people due to its resemblance to man’s best friend. We intended to deliver molecular applications and guidelines useful for enhancing our understanding of the Iberian wolf and for its conservation. These tools will be both applied to large actions or punctual situations, and will be made available in the market to serve various stakeholders. Our ultimate goal encompasses additional societal impact through advanced training and public awareness about the uniqueness of the Iberian wolf.