Between the lines: mitochondrial lineages in the heavily managed red deer population of Belarus

Abstract

Here we report the first thorough genetic characterization of the long-understudied red deer population of Belarus in regards to its ancestry according to mtDNA sequence analysis. Employing a 346 base pair segment of the mitochondrial control region (d-loop) from 36 deer specimens of either sex recently harvested across the country, we have discovered 10 haplotypes belonging to 3 of the widely described European red deer lineages, or haplogroups: Iberian (A), Tyrrhenian (B), and Maraloid (E), clarifying the range limits of those lineages in the region. Combining this data with a comparative analysis of genetic diversity and historical records, we conclude that the Belarusian population of red deer has an artificially mixed origin, though it remains unclear how desirable such a state is, in terms of sustainable management, use, and conservation. Inquiries into ancient DNA are required to recognize the lineages closest to the autochthonous deer population of Belarus.