Sustaining Genetic Health of Isolated Malleefowl Populations

Examine genetic differentiation and inbreeding indices in small and isolated Malleefowl populations, compare results to large populations, and develop strategies to increase genetic variation where needed.

Clearing for agriculture devastated Malleefowl populations by removing the most productive habitat and leaving remnant areas severely fragmented. While typically small, these isolated remnants often support high densities of breeding Malleefowl, sometimes with more positive population trajectories than those in larger, uncleared landscapes on more arid and poorer soils.

Despite relatively favourable demographics, the long-term prognosis for these small populations is poor. Fragmentation has disrupted natural gene flow patterns, leading to genetic degradation and damaging inbreeding. Populations in large, uncleared landscapes also face risk. Extensive bushfires can cause localised extinction, and small surviving groups may face severe genetic bottlenecks.

This project aims to fundamentally change how we view isolated remnant populations. Rather than being seen as vulnerable and neglected, they can be transformed, through genetic rescue, into insurance populations that safeguard genetic variation necessary for persistence. This approach leverages the unique advantages of small, isolated patches: more productive soils, access to edge forage, protection from wildfire, moderated climate, and greater opportunities for community participation and management.

The project works in partnership with geneticists at the Wildlife Genetic Management Group Hub at Monash University, as well as other institutions and government partners.