Evaluating the effectiveness of models in predicting the genetic outcome of reintroduction strategies

Population viability analysis (PVA) is a powerful tool to inform conservation management decisions supporting reintroduction programs of threatened species. This thesis evaluates the effectiveness of models in predicting the genetic outcome of translocations, using the woylie (brush-tailed bettong; Bettongia penicillata) as a case study. This includes integrating environmental disturbances into the PVA, considering the role of selection in simulated outcomes, comparing PVA-based management recommendations across different genetic marker types, and using hindsight to evaluate PVA predictions over the last decade against field observations. This work contributes new knowledge on the strengths and limitations of this critical tool for threatened species management.