Data from: Assault from all sides: hybridization and introgression threaten the already critically endangered Myuchelys georgesi (Chelonia: Chelidae)

Hybridization and introgression between species is remarkably common, even
between distantly-related taxa. This suggests that the frequency of
hybridization between species has been greatly constrained, not by
evolutionary divergence in isolation, but by lack of opportunity. This
constraint is being relaxed by human-mediated dispersal. Here we document
a case where such dispersal of a widespread species of freshwater turtle
(Emydura macquarii) into the highly restricted range of a critically
endangered endemic turtle (Myuchelys georgesi) has provided opportunity
for the two to hybridize. This has raised concerns about the potential
impact of hybridization on the endemic species, and its continued
persistence in the face of challenges brought about by habitat alteration,
increased competition, disease, and genetic pollution. This study serves
to highlight the risks associated with human-mediated dispersal, which can
bring into contact species that would otherwise have never or rarely met,
and so provide opportunity for hybridization and introgression between
even distantly-related species with uncertain consequences for already
threatened species.