Molecular characterization and genetic analysis of Myrmecophaga tridactyla (giant anteater).

Abstract

Brazil is the greatest biological diversity country among others 17 countries "mega-diverse" in the world. Proportion to the enormous biodiversity, are the environmental impacts caused by economic development, where many species are under threat of extinction. The process of deforestation in forest areas leads to the formation of isolated fragments that act as "islands" of forest surrounded by non-forested habitats. Fragmentation of habitats by human interference can cause many ecological disturbances that affect the biological diversity of a region. Thus, this study aims to analyze the genetic structure of the Myrmecophaga tridactyla (giant anteater), in the Northwest region of São Paulo State, using microsatellite molecular markers and mitochondrial 16S marker, which are effective for this purpose. This species has been one of the main victims of habitat fragmentation caused by man and that included in the "Vulnerable" (VU), or vulnerable in both global and national levels. Due to the great threat of extinction suffered by the species Myrmecophaga tridactyla, and the economic characteristics of our region, which has been intense target of human activities, mainly related to the deforestation of large areas for the planting of sugarcane and other crops and that can speed up this process, conducting studies that approach the genetic structure of this species is critical. Such studies have great relevance and can assist in the creation of action plans for the conservation of the remaining giant anteater in our region, and to identify reproductive strategies used by the representatives of this group of organisms. (AU)