The extinction vortex is a concept (and unfortunate fact) that is an important part of conservation genetics for small populations. Although the Frankham chapter we read this week didn’t explicitly go into the implications for zoo populations, there are strong similarities between captive populations and small populations in the wild. You can relate what Frankham said in this week’s chapter directly to the ideas presented by Lacy from last week’s readings.
Write a short 250-500 word paper on how the extinction vortex and genetic drift can impact the species you have selected for your final assignment (* Mountain Pygmy Possum*), both in the wild and in captivity.
