Genetic Impact of Escaped Pigs on Wild Boar

Researchers found hybridization between domestic swine and wild boar in Fukushima led to gene dilution.
2011 Fukushima accident allowed escaped pigs to interbreed, creating a natural experiment.
Genetic studies showed hybrids were more than five generations removed.
Hybrids initially increased but declined due to backcrossing, unlike in North America.
Results could aid invasive species control by targeting hybrids.

Genetics | Invasive Species | Wildlife Hybridization

Japan | North America

Shingo Kaneko | Donovan Anderson

5 days ago