Allele dataset of western grasswren for use in VORTEX (PVA analysis)

Conservation translocations have become an increasingly popular method to
restore or secure vulnerable populations. However, translocations greatly
vary in success. The use of population viability analysis (PVA) may
increase the likelihood of meeting translocation goals. However, the
quality of PVAs to inform translocations is dependent on the availability
of ecological data and clear translocation objectives to guide them. Here,
we used PVAs to inform the planned conservation translocation of the
Western Grasswren (Amytornis textilis textilis) from mainland Shark Bay
onto Dirk Hartog Island, Western Australia. A range of translocation
scenarios was modelled and scored against success criteria as determined
by translocation objectives. Simulations of 20-year outcomes found that a
minimum founder population of 112 individuals meets all success criteria.
PVA supported sourcing individuals from two subpopulations to maximise
genetic diversity. No impact to source populations was detected for the
proposed harvest quantities despite conservative estimates of initial
source population sizes. Here we demonstrate that creating clear,
measurable objectives alongside a PVA lessens ambiguity about which
translocation scenarios could be viable. In doing so, we have identified
the minimum translocation sizes needed to maintain genetic diversity and
population growth, thus increasing the likelihood of translocation success
without impacting the source population.