Low genetic diversity and regional isolation of South Africa’s inshore Bryde’s whales

Key Points

• Low genetic diversity indicates a limited gene pool, which can threaten the long-term survival of the population.
• The regional isolation of Bryde's whales prevents gene flow, increasing their vulnerability to environmental changes.
• Conservation genetics methods were employed to assess the population structure and dynamics of Bryde's whales in the region.
• Findings highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable whale population from extinction.