Data from: Genetic variation and structure in contrasting geographic distributions: widespread vs. restricted black-tailed prairie dogs (subgenus Cynomys)

Species of restricted distribution are considered more vulnerable to
extinction because of low levels of genetic variation relative to
widespread taxa. Species of the subgenus Cynomys are an excellent system
to compare genetic variation and degree of genetic structure in
contrasting geographic distributions. We assessed levels of genetic
variation, genetic structure, and genetic differentiation in widespread
Cynomys ludovicianus and restricted C. mexicanus using 1997bp from the
cytochrome b and control region (n = 223 C. ludovicianus; 77 C.
mexicanus), and 10 nuclear microsatellite loci (n = 207 and 78,
respectively). Genetic variation for both species was high, and genetic
structure in the widespread species was higher than in the restricted
species. C. mexicanus showed values of genetic variation, genetic
structure, and genetic differentiation similar to C. ludovicianus at
smaller geographic scales. Results suggest the presence of at least 2
historical refuges for C. ludovicianus and that the Sierra Madre
Occidental represents a barrier to gene flow. Chihuahua and New Mexico
possess high levels of genetic diversity and should be protected, while
Sonora should be treated as an independent management unit. For C.
mexicanus, connectivity among colonies is very important and habitat
fragmentation and habitat loss should be mitigated to maintain gene flow.