Conservation genetics

Genetic diversity is a cornerstone of biodiversity

Genetic diversity is the fundamental building block of life that allows for adaptation, evolution, and life as we know it.

Some species have undergone local extinctions, and may need new populations to be created from available sources so we can reintroduce them into the landscape. Other species might be less threatened, but we might not understand how their populations are connected, and which habitat is vital to protect to allow them to thrive.

Conservation genetics can address these issues by providing systematic monitoring for hard-to-capture species, and can help us differentiate between cryptic species.

Revealing evolutionary timelines

We recognise that effective conservation makes the most of every tool available.

Conservation genetics has been a key part of our research into reintroductions, threatened species biology, and population monitoring, and it will continue to play an important role in our research as we work toward the conservation of our planet’s biodiversity.

Publications under this theme

  • Rees et al. (2023) Phylogenomic and morphological data reveal hidden patterns of diversity in the national tree of Brazil, Paubrasilia echinate. American Journal of Botany, e16241.

  • Brockett et al. (2022) Establishment, persistence and the importance of longitudinal monitoring in multi-source reintroductions. Animal Conservation, 25(4): 550–565.

  • Itoigawa et al. (2022) Functional diversity and evolution of bitter taste receptors in egg-laying mammals. Molecular Biology and Evolution, 39(6): msac107.