A baseline genetic analysis of the K'gari-Fraser Island dingo population: Final report

The dingo, Canis dingo, is Australia’s largest terrestrial predator, and is naturalised as a topdown ecosystem regulator, and a valuable contributor to the retention of biodiversity. Although listed as Vulnerable (IUCN Redlist), and protected in the ACT and NT and in National Parks/Aboriginal Reserves, the dingo is still declared a pest in most Australian jurisdictions and is subject to lethal control measures. This contradictory protection/legal status has contributed to emotive and politicised debates regarding appropriate management of the species. K'gari-Fraser Island’s iconic dingoes have high socio-cultural value, a rich placing in Indigenous history, are the most well-known dingo population in Australia, and form a strong eco-tourism drawcard. Given their status as an apex predator, and the high levels of tourist visitation, management of the island’s resident dingo population is complex, and requires a delicate balancing act to ensure human safety, whilst also taking steps to initiate effective conservation management. Significantly, very little scientific research has provided data on which to base management decisions. Perhaps the most pertinent knowledge gaps are the absence of meaningful population census data, and knowledge of the population’s genetic status, both of which are considered vital baseline data to inform conservation management efforts