Phylogenomic history, systematic status and conservation assessment of the endemic Irish hare

The proposed PhD will focus on the Irish hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus), one of Ireland’s most significant endemic species, with the aim of clarifying its taxonomic status, understand its population structure, and assess its current conservation status. The study will investigate whether the Irish hare should be considered a distinct species from the mountain hare (L. timidus). A determination in favour of species distinction could have substantial implications for conservation.

This study aims to clarify the systematic classification, population structure, local adaptation, distribution, and conservation status of the endemic Irish hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus):

1) Examination of the phylogenomic and systematic status of the mountain hare using an existing bank of tissue samples and high-resolution genome and mitogenome sequencing with comparative analysis between the Irish hare (L.t. hibernicus) and other mountain hare (L. timidus) subspecies.

2) Description of genomic population structure and change in effective population size through advanced genomics to assess genetic diversity and geographic patterns. Historical population sizes will be reconstructed, offering insight into demographic changes over the last few tens of thousands of years.

3) Characterisation of local adaptation and morphology by analysing skeletal morphology across mountain hare subspecies. Skull and mandible landmark-based shape and size analyses will assess adaptive differences in response to environmental variation between the habitat niches of different mountain hare subspecies.

4) Assessment of the distribution and population trends of the Irish hare in Northern Ireland by collating biological records for modelling site occupancy and abundance over recent decades.

5) Evaluation of the current conservation status of the Irish hare in Northern Ireland using camera trap survey Distance Sampling to estimate the current population size, along with a holistic assessment of distribution, range, threats and pressures and future prospects.

This comprehensive approach will advance understanding of the Irish hare’s genetic diversity, adaptation, and conservation status, informing statutory reporting responsibilities and management decisions.