Data from: Yellowstone bison—should we preserve artificial population substructure or rely on ecological processes?

Halbert et al. (2012) analyzed microsatellite genotypes collected from 661 Yellowstone bison sampled during winters from 1999 through 2003 and identified 2 genetically distinct subpopulations (central, northern) based on genotypic diversity and allelic distributions. Based on these findings, they raised concerns about the management and long-term conservation of Yellowstone bison due to disproportionate culling of the 2 subpopulations in some winters. The data and findings of Halbert et al. (2012) are significant and useful for managers charged with conserving these iconic wildlife. However, their article provides information regarding the behavior and management of Yellowstone bison that does not accurately portray historic or current conditions. This response clarifies those conditions and challenges some of their apparent deductions and recommendations.

Halbert等人（2012）对1999年至2003年冬季采集的661头黄石野牛（Yellowstone bison）的微卫星基因型（microsatellite genotypes）进行分析，基于基因型多样性与等位基因分布特征，鉴定出两个遗传分化显著的亚种群（中部亚种群、北部亚种群）。基于上述研究结果，他们针对部分冬季对两个亚种群实施的不均衡捕杀行为，就黄石野牛的管理与长期保护工作提出了担忧。Halbert等人（2012）的研究数据与发现，对于负责保护这类标志性野生动物的管理者而言具有重要价值与实用意义。然而，该文章中关于黄石野牛行为与管理的相关信息，未能准确反映其历史与当前实际状况。本回应旨在阐明这些实际状况，并对文中部分看似合理的推论与建议提出质疑。