Articles tagged with Conservation Genetics
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Scientists have identified two new mole species in eastern Turkey, belonging to the Talpa genus, which has been living undiscovered for up to 3 million years. The study, using cutting-edge DNA technology, confirms their biological distinctness from other moles in the group.
A team of researchers used genetic and isotopic analyses to study jaguar scat in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Preserve, revealing habitat needs and conservation insights. The study demonstrates a novel approach to surveying wildlife without direct interaction.
Researchers confirm Bachman's warbler as a distinct species by sequencing its genome from museum specimens. The study reveals a new candidate gene involved in feather pigmentation in the group. Comparing the genomes of the extinct warbler with living sister species highlights the crucial role of museum collections in science.
A new study reveals that analyzing DNA can help predict which animals are most at risk of extinction. By examining the genomes of 240 mammal species, scientists found that those with smaller historical populations carry higher burdens of damaging mutations and are more likely to face extinction.
Two contagious cancers, devil facial tumour 1 (DFT1) and 2 (DFT2), affecting Tasmanian devils have been tracked to understand their origins and evolution. Researchers found DFT2 is a faster-growing cancer with rapid mutations, posing a significant threat to the species.
A genetic census has been used to estimate the number and population structure of critically endangered western chimpanzees in West Africa. The analysis identified a total of 136 chimpanzees living in four different communities, with high levels of shared ancestry and genetic diversity.
New research on malaria-infected bonobos shows that the infection harms them, too, with symptoms including fever and increased mortality risk. The study also finds that bonobos have a protective variant of an immune gene similar to one found in humans, suggesting a selective advantage for those individuals.
A team of scientists found a 16-year-old European hedgehog in Denmark, exceeding the previous record by seven years. The discovery contradicts previous studies suggesting that inbreeding reduces lifespan. The study's results provide valuable insights into the basic life history of hedgehogs and may improve conservation efforts.
Researchers found that Scandinavian wolves have an average of 100,000 harmful mutations, with a high proportion occurring in two copies due to inbreeding. This increases the risk of inbreeding depression and defects such as deformed vertebrae and cryptorchidism.
Researchers developed a pedigree for aquarium-bred corals, revealing relationships between individuals and identifying genetic differences. The study provides insights into maximizing genetic diversity and adaptability in corals bred for conservation, crucial for their resilience to threats like ocean warming and acidification.
A new study found that large river dams are significant barriers to platypus movements, leading to increased genetic differentiation and vulnerability to threats. This restriction of movement limits gene flow between groups, making separate populations more susceptible to inbreeding depression and loss of adaptive genetic variation.
Researchers created iPSCs from Okinawa rail, Japanese ptarmigan, Blakiston's fish owl, and Japanese golden eagle for conservation. The cells can differentiate into various cell types, providing a valuable resource for evaluating disease risks and pollution.
Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.
Researchers have completed and released a chromosome-scale genome sequence of the Aldabra giant tortoise, providing a much-needed genetic resource for rescue efforts. The data will aid in breeding efforts, comparative studies with other tortoise species, and understanding the species' remarkable size.
A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
A new study found nearly half of Florida panther mutations originated from Texas and Central American pumas, bringing both good and bad genetic material. Researchers emphasize the need to monitor genetic health due to potential risks, especially with small population sizes. Genetic screening for future introductions may be necessary.
Researchers found 61 out of 86 species threatened with extinction, with coastal sharks facing greatest conservation concern. Increased protections and international trade regulations are crucial to prevent extinctions among these species.
The California Conservation Genomics Project is generating high-quality data to inform conservation policy, mapping genetic diversity across the state's diverse ecosystems. By analyzing over 22,000 genomes, researchers aim to identify critical habitats for protection and create a snapshot of genomic biodiversity.
A study of ancient DNA from a 100,000-year-old polar bear genome found that extensive hybridization between polar bears and brown bears occurred during the last warm interglacial period. As a result, all living brown bears today have some polar bear ancestry.
A recent study found that boosting the pink pigeon's numbers is not sufficient to prevent its extinction in the future. The species has a high genetic load of bad mutations, which puts it at risk of collapse if conservation efforts do not continue.
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
Scientists have deciphered the helmeted honeyeater's genome and created a genetic map to guide advanced genetic rescue methods. The new tools allow for precise breeding decisions, reducing inbreeding and its negative impact on population health.
A new species of fish, the Rose-Veiled Fairy Wrasse, has been described by a Maldivian researcher and colleagues as part of the California Academy of Sciences' global Hope for Reefs initiative. The discovery reveals that the species is actually two different species with potentially more restricted distributions.
A team of scientists used genetic testing to uncover the tactics of international criminal networks behind ivory trafficking out of Africa. The analysis linked most large ivory shipments to a handful of interconnected smuggling networks, expanding efforts to track and seize illicit shipments.
A recent study published in PLOS Genetics found that genetic legacy from the last glaciation influences reindeer's migratory behavior. Caribou with more northern ancestry were more likely to migrate longer distances, highlighting an evolutionary adaptation to harsh tundra environments.
The Earth BioGenome Project aims to sequence all eukaryotic life, with 9,400 taxonomic families expected to be completed by 2023. The project's progress has sparked excitement for its potential to prevent biodiversity loss and adapt food crops to climate change.
The research provides a foundation to better understand redwood responses to climate impacts and pathogens. Hundreds of gene families unique to the coast redwood were found, many helping trees respond to stress and resist disease.
Researchers found two prion gene variants in Père David's deer that may reduce susceptibility to CWD. The genetic variants were surprising given the population's small founder size and conserved prion protein gene. Studies are needed to confirm whether these variants provide protection against CWD.
Researchers successfully used cryopreserved sperm to fertilize coral eggs from hundreds of miles away, demonstrating the reproductive compatibility of distant coral colonies. The technique, known as assisted gene flow, has potential as a conservation tool for endangered corals and could accelerate their adaptation to climate change.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a new way to track genetically modified animals using artificial transgenes. The discovery provides a powerful tool for locating and managing escaped or released GM animals.
Researchers sequenced DNA from plant specimens collected nearly 50 years ago to analyze genetic diversity and its response to climate change. The study found that several species restricted to the Guadalupe Mountains had surprisingly high amounts of genetic diversity, which could help them adapt to changing conditions.
Chapman's Pygmy Chameleon, one of the world's rarest chameleons, has been found in surviving patches of forest in Malawi. The species was feared extinct due to forest loss and habitat fragmentation, leading to reduced genetic diversity and increased extinction risk.
Researchers examine the potential and uncertainties of genetic rescue, a conservation approach that aims to alleviate genetic problems in isolated populations. The study highlights the need for further research on the effectiveness and limitations of genetic rescue, including its impact on habitat fragmentation and biodiversity.
The Dahl's Toad-headed Turtle is threatened due to small and fragmented populations and high levels of inbreeding. A genetic rescue strategy is recommended to save the species, including moving turtles between subpopulations and restoring its habitat.
A genetic rescue technique has increased population numbers and survival rates of the endangered mountain pygmy possum, with a rapid growth of over 200 individuals detected since its introduction in 2011. Habitat restoration, predator control, and environmental protection also played crucial roles in conservation management.
A recent study found that the San Nicolas Island fox population has extremely low genetic variation, making it vulnerable to extinction. Genetic rescue from other island fox subspecies could be necessary to preserve this important ecosystem member.
A special journal issue highlights real-world applications of conservation genetics in Latin America, from combating wildlife smuggling to exposing consumer fraud. Researchers used genetic techniques to characterize jaguar populations and identify piracatinga fish as a substitute for river dolphins.
Scientists from Michigan Technological University found that inbred wolves on Isle Royale National Park are struggling, leading to a significant drop in wolf predation rates and a doubling of the moose population. The researchers attribute this decline to genetic inbreeding caused by the introduction of a single immigrant wolf in 1997.
Michigan Technological University researchers found an immigrant wolf in Isle Royale's gene pool through DNA analysis of scat samples. The introduction of new genes led to a decrease in inbreeding and increased survival rates among the wolves.
A new drug has been discovered that can prevent the death of brain cells endangered by neurological injury or disease. The drug works by switching off the production of an inflammatory protein called cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which is known to precede brain cell death in conditions of injury or disease.
Researchers successfully incorporated and reprogrammed genes from adult cells of various animal species into bovine eggs. The study's findings suggest a conserved molecular mechanism in mammals for embryonic reprogramming, enabling the use of cow eggs as a 'universal recipient' for genetic material from other species.