Once a species has been in domestic maintenance for several
generations, it is no longer the wild form. It does retain an
evolutionary relationship to the wild form. Perhaps in a few cases
the genotype may remain very close. But it is not the same animal.
Can such animals be used in restoration work? That's really a
stretch. USFWS-in-its Dexter laboratories in New Mexico works very
hard to maintain genetic integrity, and to prevent pathogen
contamination as well. Even these professionals are not always
successful-in-what they do. Reintroduction of domesticated animals
would be similar to trying to restore wolves by turning loose a few
huskies or elkhounds.
I have to disagree, release a large number of domestic goldfish into the
wild, in a pond or even a stream. In a very few generations you will have wild
type goldfish again. I've seen it happen in even small ponds. animals are often
genetically more plastic than we give them credit for.
Michael
/-----------------------------------------------------------------------
/ This is the discussion list of the North American Native Fishes
/ Association (NANFA). Comments made on this list do not necessarily
/ reflect the beliefs or goals of NANFA. For more information about NANFA,
/ visit http://www.nanfa.org Please make sure all posts to nanfa-l are
/ consistent with the guidelines as per
/ http://www.nanfa.org/guidelines.shtml To subscribe, unsubscribe, or get
/ help, visit the NANFA email list home page and archive at
/ http://www.nanfa.org/email.shtml