Genetic variation in the Alpine chamois, with special reference to the subspecies Rupicapra rupicapra cartusiana Couturier, 1938

Genetic Variation in 53 individuals representing 6 Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) populations was investigated by starch gel electrophoresis, in order to determine the extent to which the endangered subspecies R. r. cartusiana differs from R. r. rupicapra and merits protection. Across all populations studied 10 of 55 loci screened were polymorphic and average heterozygosity was typical for a mammal but high for a large mammal. As measured by Nei genetic distances, the cartusiana population was the most distinct, but no loci diplaying fixed differences between populations were detected. It is concluded that the decision to protect the cartusiana population must depend on the cost of the protection.