Taxonomic reassessment of captive sugar gliders using genetic analyses and complementary acoustic data
The result's identifiers
Result code in IS VaVaI
<a href="https://www.isvavai.cz/riv?ss=detail&h=RIV%2F60460709%3A41340%2F25%3A103486" target="_blank" >RIV/60460709:41340/25:103486 - isvavai.cz</a>
Alternative codes found
RIV/08568901:_____/25:N0000006 RIV/00216208:11310/25:10507971
Result on the web
<a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-31262-0" target="_blank" >https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-31262-0</a>
DOI - Digital Object Identifier
<a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-31262-0" target="_blank" >10.1038/s41598-025-31262-0</a>
Alternative languages
Result language
angličtina
Original language name
Taxonomic reassessment of captive sugar gliders using genetic analyses and complementary acoustic data
Original language description
Accurate species identification is crucial for managing ex-situ populations, especially in cryptic species complexes where taxonomic uncertainty may compromise conservation. The sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps s.l.) is a small nocturnal marsupial commonly bred in zoos and is popular in the exotic pet trade. Recent taxonomic revisions revealed substantial cryptic diversity within the complex, raising concerns about species identity and geographic origin of captive individuals. We used an integrative approach combining genetic and acoustic analyses to assess the taxonomic status of captive P. breviceps s.l. populations. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial ND2 and ND4 genes showed a strong genetic affinity between European and United States captive populations, suggesting a shared origin within the New Guinean lineage. These findings support their reclassification as Petaurus papuanus. Despite their captive origin, these populations showed unexpectedly high haplotype diversity, likely due to repeated introductions from genetically distinct but geographically close wild populations. However, within-group homogeneity indicates limited genetic exchange among breeding lines. Acoustic analyses of the barking call revealed intraspecific variability but little species-specificity, indicating a minor role in reproductive isolation. Our findings underscore the importance of taxonomic clarity and structured genetic management for conserving captive population integrity.
Czech name
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Czech description
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Classification
Type
J<sub>imp</sub> - Article in a specialist periodical, which is included in the Web of Science database
CEP classification
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OECD FORD branch
10613 - Zoology
Result continuities
Project
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Continuities
S - Specificky vyzkum na vysokych skolach
Others
Publication year
2025
Confidentiality
S - Úplné a pravdivé údaje o projektu nepodléhají ochraně podle zvláštních právních předpisů
Data specific for result type
Name of the periodical
Scientific Reports
ISSN
2045-2322
e-ISSN
2045-2322
Volume of the periodical
15
Issue of the periodical within the volume
DEC 21 2025
Country of publishing house
GB - UNITED KINGDOM
Number of pages
12
Pages from-to
1-12
UT code for WoS article
001651040300001
EID of the result in the Scopus database
2-s2.0-105026212330