European wildcat microsatellites dataset

The File contains the raw microsatellites database in GenAlEx format for 1124 cat samples used in the analyses, characterised by 31 loci. For each samples is provided the sampling location, as reported in Tables, Figures and main taxt of the manuscript.This file can be converted to other formats using GenAlEx

SNPs_publication_ATCG

file 1: 'SNPs_publication_ATCG': this file contains the raw SNPs database in GenAlEx format for two sets of samples (sheets 1 and 2): sheet 1: SNPs data for all 274 cat samples used in the analyses (139 domestic cats - FCA; 130 putative European wildcats - FSI; 5 known hybrids FCA x FSI), characterised by 158 loci; sheet 2: SNPs data for 226 cat samples (139 domestic cats - FCA; 82 European wildcats - FSI; 5 known hybrids FCA x FSI), characterised by 158 loci. This sample set was created to exclude possible hybrids from the representatives of European wildcats. These files can be converted to other formats using GenAlEx

Table_1_A common statement on anthropogenic hybridization of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris).xlsx

Preserving natural genetic diversity and ecological function of wild species is a central goal in conservation biology. As such, anthropogenic hybridization is considered a threat to wild populations, as it can lead to changes in the genetic makeup of wild species and even to the extinction of wild genomes. In European wildcats, the genetic and ecological impacts of gene flow from domestic cats are mostly unknown at the species scale. However, in small and isolated populations, it is known to include genetic swamping of wild genomes. In this context, it is crucial to better understand the dynamics of hybridization across the species range, to inform and implement management measures that maintain the genetic diversity and integrity of the European wildcat. In the present paper, we aim to provide an overview of the current scientific understanding of anthropogenic hybridization in European wildcats, to clarify important aspects regarding the evaluation of hybridization given the available methodologies, and to propose guidelines for management and research priorities.</p

Table_2_A common statement on anthropogenic hybridization of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris).xlsx

Preserving natural genetic diversity and ecological function of wild species is a central goal in conservation biology. As such, anthropogenic hybridization is considered a threat to wild populations, as it can lead to changes in the genetic makeup of wild species and even to the extinction of wild genomes. In European wildcats, the genetic and ecological impacts of gene flow from domestic cats are mostly unknown at the species scale. However, in small and isolated populations, it is known to include genetic swamping of wild genomes. In this context, it is crucial to better understand the dynamics of hybridization across the species range, to inform and implement management measures that maintain the genetic diversity and integrity of the European wildcat. In the present paper, we aim to provide an overview of the current scientific understanding of anthropogenic hybridization in European wildcats, to clarify important aspects regarding the evaluation of hybridization given the available methodologies, and to propose guidelines for management and research priorities.</p