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Boecklen, W.J.
Optimal design of nature reserves: consequences of genetic drift
1986 Biological Conservation (38): 323-338
Computer simulations were used to compare rates of genetic drift and allele fixation in intact populations with those in subdivided populations with the same total numbers of individuals. Subdivided populations with occasional inter-subpopulation migrations typically preserve more heterozygotes over the long term and preserve alleles longer than do corresponding intact populations. Intact populations typically exhibit a short-term (50 generations) advantage over subdivided populations in maintaining heterozygosity. Rates of genetic drift are influenced by population size, intersubpopulation migration rate, and degree of population subdivision. Archipelagos of refuges with occasional inter-refuge migration appear to be the optimal design strategy for genetic conservation.
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