FRAGMENTATION OF EURASIAN MOOSE POPULATIONS DURING PERIODS OF POPULATION DEPRESSION

Abstract

Changes in the distribution of Eurasian moose (Alces alces) populations during the Pleistocene and Holocene eras were analyzed from historical and contemporary literature. We focused on how range boundaries varied, suitable habitat was fragmented, and how local and regional populations were isolated, especially during periods of population depression. We discuss how the occurrence and duration of isolation of local populations likely influenced the genetic structure of Eurasian moose. We question the geographic division of certain subspecies, and suggest that our analysis be used to reinterpret and revise genetic structure of Eurasian moose populations