Data from: Comparative evaluation of potential indicators and temporal sampling protocols for monitoring genetic erosion

Genetic biodiversity contributes to individual fitness, species'
evolutionary potential, and ecosystem stability. Temporal monitoring of
the genetic status and trends of wild populations' genetic diversity
can provide vital data to inform policy decisions and management actions.
However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding which genetic metrics,
temporal sampling protocols, and genetic markers are sufficiently
sensitive and robust, on conservation-relevant timescales. Here, we tested
six genetic metrics and various sampling protocols (number and arrangement
of temporal samples) for monitoring genetic erosion following demographic
decline. To do so, we utilized individual-based simulations featuring an
array of different initial population sizes, types and severity of
demographic decline, and DNA markers [single nucleotide polymorphisms
(SNPs) and microsatellites] as well as decline followed by recovery.
Number of alleles markedly outperformed other indicators across all
situations. The type and severity of demographic decline strongly affected
power, while the number and arrangement of temporal samples had small
effect. Sampling 50 individuals at as few as two time points with 20
microsatellites performed well (good power), and could detect genetic
erosion while 80–90% of diversity remained. This sampling and genotyping
effort should often be affordable. Power increased substantially with more
samples or markers, and we observe that power of 2500 SNPs was nearly
equivalent to 250 microsatellites, a result of theoretical and practical
interest. Our results suggest high potential for using historic
collections in monitoring programs, and demonstrate the need to monitor
genetic as well as other levels of biodiversity.