Conservation genomics of several threatened Mixophyes frog species native to eastern Australia
This study uses single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) data to assess the phylogeny, population genetic structure, genetic diversity, and inbreeding in M. iteratus, M. balbus, and M. australis. First, we seek to assess whether the level of divergence within the geographically structured M. iteratus is comparable to species-level divergence within other Mixophyes species. We also assess whether historical admixture patterns indicate these species can migrate between suitable habitats. Further, we assess whether populations are at genetic risk due to low genetic diversity or high levels of inbreeding. Using this information, we identify conservation units within each species and high-value genetic populations that should be primary targets for conservation actions such as threat management (e.g. protective fire buffer management in the future). Based on these analyses, we outline possible conservation actions to help better protect these frogs.