Polymorphism of the endangered European mink (Mustela lutreola, Carnivora, Mustelidae) population in the central forest reserve and neighboring areas

Intrapopulation polymorphism of the European mink ( Mustela lutreola ) at the phenetic, morphometric, and molecular genetic levels has been evaluated by analyzing the collection of skulls ( n = 103) compiled during the period of demographic decline and practical extinction of the population. The results provide evidence for the reduction of phenetic diversity, high-level dynamics of the phene pool, increased levels of fluctuating asymmetry and frequency of oligodontia, and low variation in craniometric characters. In the aggregate, these changes may be indicative of high mortality and increased, but not critical, level of inbreeding. However, parameters of nucleotide and haplotype diversity in the European mink exceed those in closely related species, the European polecat ( Mustela putorius L.) and pine marten ( Martes martes L.).