Conservation Genetics

Most Australian ‘wild dogs’ are predominantly dingoes

How river DNA can track fish, frogs, fungi and human feces — all at once

Researchers have developed a technique to analyze DNA from water samples to track species, detect pollution, and monitor ecosystem health. The technology identifies DNA from various organisms, including fish, amphibians, mammals, and even leatherback sea turtles.

Historical climate and geography shaped the phylogeography of a rare mycoheterotrophic herb in subtropical China

A study on the phylogeography of Burmannia nepalensis, a rare mycoheterotrophic herb in subtropical China, found that historical climate fluctuations and geographic isolation shaped its evolutionary history. The research reveals limited gene flow due to mountain barriers and fragmented habitats.

Chalk-stream salmon could become an official sub-species

New research suggests chalk-stream salmon be classified as a sub-species of Atlantic salmon, with potential benefits for targeted conservation. The study found genetic distinctness between chalk streams and nearby rivers, highlighting the importance of protecting these habitats.

Unlocking the value of biodiversity in the UK and Ireland

A new report estimates that sequencing DNA of all complex life in UK and Ireland could benefit the economy through improved crop resilience, medicine, and conservation. The Darwin Tree of Life Project has already saved research costs by providing over 2,500 reference genomes.

Illumina and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance partner to sequence the Frozen Zoo®, supporting critical conservation genetics efforts globally

The partnership aims to support conservation genetics efforts globally by sequencing up to 4,000 unique animal samples across 1,300 species. The project will provide valuable genomic insights to inform conservation management decisions and promote ecological resilience.

Strategic sex: Alaska’s beluga whales swap mates for long-term survival

A new study reveals how beluga whales in Alaska's Bristol Bay survive through a surprising strategy: they mate with multiple partners over several years. This polygynandrous system helps maintain genetic diversity despite the population's small size and isolation.

Synthetic DNA can help researchers create models to track fish, wildlife in water

Researchers developed synthetic DNA to mimic eDNA behavior and tracked its movement for 33 hours. A new model predicts where a sampled particle of eDNA likely originated in a water body, aiding conservation efforts.

House sparrows in northern Norway can help us save other endangered animals

Researchers used genetic data from house sparrows to develop a statistical model that can predict traits in other species. The study found that making predictions across different populations works less well than within populations, but provided new insights for improving the technique.

Integrating genetics into species distribution models reveals the migration history of wild black pepper

Researchers developed a genetically informed dynamic species distribution model to reconstruct the distributional history of wild Piper nigrum from 21,000 years ago. The model identified glacial refugia and patterns of range contraction, expansion, and fragmentation following the Last Glacial Maximum.

Deforested genomes: Scientists find signs of environmental degradation in the genomes of the endangered Maned Sloths

The study reveals lower genetic diversity and historical population sizes in the Southern Maned Sloth, while the Northern lineage faces rapid inbreeding due to deforestation. The findings offer critical insights for conservation of endangered species.

New environmental DNA test could help rare hammerhead sharks fight extinction

A groundbreaking environmental DNA test developed by Florida International University scientist Diego Cardeñosa can detect traces of elusive hammerhead sharks in water samples. The test reveals fragments of genetic material left behind in the ocean, identifying areas where the sharks have been and informing conservation efforts.

Wild giraffes lose their conservation safety net as zoo populations hybridize

New research reveals American giraffe collections have been hybridized across species, reducing their conservation value. The study recommends phasing out hybridized animals from captive breeding programs and screening existing animals for better genetic matches.

Method to assess the status of wild reindeer may help with conservation efforts

Researchers developed an environmental quality standard to evaluate reindeer populations, finding most areas rated as poor or medium. The standard aims to inform management efforts and secure long-term conservation of wild reindeer.

The world’s snow leopards are very similar genetically. That doesn’t bode well for their future

A new study found that snow leopards have very low genetic diversity, making them vulnerable to extinction. The research suggests that the snow leopard's low genetic diversity is due to its persistently small population size over time.

Project to ‘freeze’ decline of iconic butterfly

Researchers investigate cryopreservation as a tool for conservation, using the European subspecies of the Swallowtail to assess its viability. If effective, it could support long-term strategies like breeding programs and reintroduction efforts.

By studying yellow warbler, researchers hope to better understand response to rapid climate change in wild species

A new research paper from Colorado State University finds that precipitation levels are the key environmental factor influencing genetic variation in the warbler's beak, which is crucial for heat retention. The study reveals that birds struggling to adapt to climate change experience higher stress levels and population declines.

The tale of the creature with the most chromosomes

The Atlas blue butterfly has been found to have the highest number of chromosomes among multicellular animals, with 229 pairs. Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and IBE studied its genome, revealing that the extra chromosomes were broken up over time instead of duplicated.

Meat from critically endangered sharks is commonly sold under false labels in the US

A study found that 31% of 'shark' products in the US are from endangered species, sold without proper labeling. The research used DNA barcoding to identify species, revealing critically endangered sharks were being sold as common or vulnerable species.

Biological ‘moonshot’ accelerates efforts to genetically map life on Earth

The Earth BioGenome Project aims to create a digital library of DNA sequences to preserve and protect life on Earth. With over 2,200 scientists in 88 countries, the project is making discoveries that could help assure food security and advance medicine.

Red squirrels facing bright future on Isle of Wight, study finds

Researchers found that the island has enough trees, hedgerows, and seeds for the estimated 3500 red squirrels to thrive and grow. The study also discovered signs of genetic mixing between the east and west populations, suggesting a bright future for the island's squirrel population.

New test could help preserve endangered gibbon populations

A genetic test developed by Dr Lauren Lansdowne can reliably determine the species of individual gibbons, helping to preserve vulnerable populations. The test uses DNA sequencing and has been validated using large-scale samples from over 200 gibbons in European zoos.

Zoo populations hold key to saving Pacific pocket mouse

A new study shows that mixing mice from different populations can create genetically healthier populations, increasing survival and reproductive success. The research challenges common perceptions about the risks of outbreeding depression, highlighting the benefits of genetic rescue in conservation programs.

UCF researcher helps confirm genetic restoration success for Florida panthers

A recent study co-authored by UCF Assistant Professor of Biology Robert Fitak reveals that the 1990s translocation of Texas pumas improved the Florida panther's genetic health while preserving its unique ancestry. The study found increased genetic variation, retention of unique traits, and a decrease in harmful mutations.

When rattlesnakes marry their cousins

A long-term study found that Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes are 13% less likely to have surviving offspring and have a nearly 12% lower annual survival rate when inbred. Habitat connectivity is crucial for the snakes' survival, as fragmentation isolates populations, making it difficult for them to find mates.

Genetic rescue of endangered species may risk bad mutations slipping through

A new study suggests that genetic rescue of endangered species may not be as effective as previously thought, and could even introduce more harmful mutations. Analysis of Eastern massasauga rattlesnakes found more deleterious than adaptive mutations in donor animals selected for relocation.

Lake sturgeon thriving in Coosa River

A study from the University of Georgia finds that lake sturgeon are reproducing on their own in the Coosa River, with some fish estimated to be over 2 years old. This marks a significant step forward in the reintroduction project, which aims to establish a self-sustaining population of these ancient fish.

Gene editing offers transformative solution to saving endangered species

A team of scientists proposes using gene editing to restore lost genetic diversity in endangered species, enabling them to adapt to future environmental changes. The approach could complement traditional conservation methods and attract new investors and expertise.

Genetic isolation despite geographic proximity highlights the threat to island fish species

A recent genetic study found that populations of the amphidromous goby Luciogobius ryukyuensis are genetically distinguishable, suggesting minimal larval exchange between islands. This highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable habitats in island ecosystems.

Deciphering starfish communication may help protect coral reefs

Researchers have discovered a synthetic peptide that attracts Crown-of-Thorns Starfish at low concentrations and with no toxicity, offering an efficient pest-management solution. This breakthrough may lead to the development of potent attractins to control CoTS outbreaks, protecting coral reefs from devastating damage.

Study finds ethical justification to eradicate certain harmful species

Researchers argue that deliberate full extinction might be acceptable in rare cases, but only with careful consideration of ecological and moral implications. The study calls for robust ethical safeguards and inclusive decision-making frameworks to guide the use of genetic modification technologies.

Nature’s toolkit: Scientists breed mushrooms to build versatile natural substitutes for commonly used materials

Researchers at McMaster University have developed new strains of the split gill mushroom with customized properties for various applications. The study demonstrates that natural genetic variations can be used to create sustainable materials like vegan leather and foam alternatives.

New study finds recovery is still possible for critically endangered Hawaiian honeycreeper with urgent intervention

A new genomic study offers a unique lens for understanding the extinction crisis in Hawai'i, revealing that there is still time to save the critically endangered honeycreeper 'akeke'e. With only 17 species of iconic honeycreepers remaining, efforts to control mosquito populations and conservation breeding programs are underway.

Saving the Asian unicorn – if it still exists

Researchers have mapped the saola's genome, revealing two distinct populations with significant genetic differences, and estimate that fewer than 100 individuals remain, raising hopes for conservation efforts through captive breeding and genetic de-extinction. The study provides new insights into the species' history and future prospects.

World Pangolin Day celebrated with new genomes to aid the world’s most trafficked animal

Scientists have released new high-quality genome sequences for two critically endangered pangolin species, revealing genetic vulnerabilities and extinction risks. The research provides essential information for rescue operations and focusing on the best ways to conserve these unique animals.

Landmark genetic study: Fresh shoots of hope on the tree of life

A landmark global study has found that two-thirds of species are losing genetic diversity, but conservation efforts are helping to reverse this trend. The study, published in Nature, highlights the importance of initiatives such as habitat restoration, animal translocations, and population control.

Preserving Asian horseshoe crab populations through targeted conservation strategies

The study maps population distribution, evolutionary histories and vulnerabilities to climate change for three Asian horseshoe crab species. It proposes customized conservation strategies based on genomic baseline dataset, highlighting the importance of Southeast Asia's Sunda Shelf as a critical coastal marine habitat.

Chimpanzees are genetically adapted to local habitats and infections such as malaria

Researchers found genetic variants that confer a benefit to chimpanzees in specific habitats, particularly those related to malaria. The study suggests that climate and land use changes will impact different chimpanzee groups differently.

Florida panthers deemed unaffected by emerging fatal genetic condition in new UCF-led research

Researchers found that Florida panthers are not at increased risk for contracting chronic wasting disease from eating infected deer. The study provides relief to conservation efforts, as the disease has spread through North America's deer and elk populations.

Scarlet Macaw parents ‘play favorites,’ purposefully neglect younger chicks

Researchers at Texas A&M University found that scarlet macaws purposefully neglect feeding the youngest chicks in most broods, resulting in only one or two chicks fledge. The parents' decision is based on the age difference between the chicks, with younger chicks being starved to death.

A visit from the stork brings genomic hope for this endangered species

A new genomic study reveals high genetic diversity and low inbreeding in the endangered Oriental Stork population, a common finding in many critically endangered species. The study provides hope for the species' long-term survival and suggests that protecting its habitats could rapidly rescue this species from extinction.

Genetic rescue for rare red foxes?

Research finds high levels of inbreeding in Lassen and Sierra Nevada red fox populations, highlighting genetic rescue as a viable option for restoration. The study also reveals the potential for reconnection with neighboring populations to increase adaptive potential.

Can captive tigers be part of the effort to save wild populations?

A new study from Stanford University provides a tool for conservationists and law enforcement to protect captive tigers and prosecute wildlife crimes. The researchers analyzed the genetic diversity of privately held tigers in the US, finding that many are a mix of wild tiger ancestry, but also reflect characteristics of the illegal trade.

New genetic editing technique to modify wild populations with less risk

A new genetic editing technique called Allele Sail can modify wild populations with greater control and lower risk than existing methods. By introducing genetic changes at low frequencies, researchers can target specific traits without disrupting the population as a whole.

Discovery of ancestral diploid lineage of Betula ermanii in Japan's High Mountains

Researchers have discovered a diploid lineage of Betula ermanii in Japan's high mountains, which provides insights into the species' history and adaptation to cold environments. The study reveals that this ancestral lineage has distinct morphological characteristics, differing from the tetraploid Honshu strain.

First conclusive evidence that a terrestrial leech species can jump

Researchers from the American Museum of Natural History and Fordham University published footage of Madagascar Chtonobdella leeches jumping, contradicting previous reports. The study provides conclusive evidence that at least one species of terrestrial leech can jump with visible energy expenditure.

Complete X and Y chromosome sequences of living great ape species determined

Researchers have generated complete 'end-to-end' reference genomes for the sex chromosomes of five great ape species, highlighting enormous variation on the Y chromosome. The findings inform understanding of diseases related to genes on these chromosomes in both apes and humans.

Fatal attraction: When endangered species try to mate with domestic relatives, both wildlife and people lose

A new study highlights the human impacts of endangered species mating with domestic relatives, causing economic loss and death. Conservation efforts are also overlooked for marginalized pastoralist populations, who often lack effective defense against aggressive wild males.

Scientists generate the first complete chromosome sequences from non-human primates

The study reveals remarkable variation between primate Y chromosomes, showing rapid evolution and previously unstudied regions. The researchers found that over 90% of ape X chromosome sequences aligned to the human X chromosome, while only 14-27% of ape Y chromosome sequences aligned to the human Y chromosome.

Mislabelled shark meat rampant in Australian markets, study finds

A study by Macquarie University found 70% of shark meat sold in Australian markets was mislabelled, including threatened species. The research highlights the need for improved labelling standards and enforcement to support sustainable consumption.

International DNA Day launch for Hong Kong’s Moonshot for Biology

The Hong Kong Biodiversity Genomics Consortium has launched a project to sequence the genomes of its eukaryotic biodiversity, which is rich in species but threatened by climate change. The first five genomes have been published in GigaByte Journal to coincide with International DNA Day.

How evolution has optimized the magnetic sensor in birds

Researchers analyzed genomes of 363 bird species and found significant variations in cryptochrome 4 gene, indicating adaptation to environmental conditions. This specialization could be related to magnetoreception in migratory birds.

Rusty-patched bumblebee’s struggle for survival found in its genes

The study revealed three genetically distinct populations of rusty-patched bumblebees, highlighting the need for tailored conservation efforts. The analysis showed low colony abundance and high rates of inbreeding, threatening the long-term viability of the species.

Reduction in survival and growth rate of Betula ermanii seedlings at tree lines and southern limits by diverse mechanisms

Research on Betula ermanii saplings reveals two distinct mechanisms contributing to poor growth: adaptation to extreme environments and genetic drift leading to inbreeding. Populations at the edge of their distribution range are susceptible to these effects, highlighting the need for conservation measures

DNA shows where Washington culvert replacements helped spawning salmon

A study by the University of Washington and NOAA found that upgrading a culvert in Washington improved fish traffic for four species of interest: cutthroat trout, coho salmon, rainbow trout, and sockeye salmon. Meanwhile, a smaller culvert replacement had less impact on fish populations.

Whaling wiped out far more fin whales than previously thought

A new genomic study reveals that whaling in the 20th century destroyed 99% of the Eastern North Pacific fin whale breeding population, but genetic diversity remains high enough to support conservation efforts. The study's findings highlight the importance of enforcing the international whaling ban to aid fin whale recovery.

Genomic analysis in snakes shows link between neutral, functional genetic diversity

Researchers found that neutral genetic diversity correlates with functional genetic diversity in Eastern massasauga rattlesnakes, suggesting a more efficient approach for species conservation. This discovery has implications for endangered species conservation, as it may not be necessary to sequence entire genomes for all cases.

DNA from discarded whale bones suggests loss of genetic diversity due to commercial whaling

A study from Oregon State University found that commercial whaling in the 20th century led to a loss of maternal DNA lineages among blue and humpback whales, potentially resulting in cultural memory loss. Whale populations near South Georgia Island have begun to recover, but the genetic diversity remains low.

Slow growth in crocodile ancestors pre-dated their semi-aquatic lifestyle

New research on fossil crocodile ancestors finds they exhibited slow growth rates similar to modern-day crocodilians. The discovery challenges prevailing wisdom on the evolution of slow growth in living crocodiles.

The butternut’s big reveal

A team of University of Connecticut undergraduates has published the first full map of the butternut's DNA, a process that could help conserve endangered species. The project is part of an ambitious effort to sequence the DNA of overlooked organisms, including deep-sea corals and critically endangered birds.