In an extensive global study on genetic diversity, an international research team has discovered that genetic diversity is diminishing worldwide. However, their efforts in conservation are proving effective in protecting various species.
In an extensive global study on genetic diversity, an international research team has discovered that genetic diversity is diminishing worldwide. However, their efforts in conservation are proving effective in protecting various species.
The groundbreaking research, published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, was spearheaded by Associate Professor Catherine Grueber from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, along with a group of researchers from countries such as the UK, Sweden, Poland, Spain, Greece, and China.
Data collected over more than thirty years (from 1985 to 2019) examined 628 species of animals, plants, and fungi from both land and most oceanic regions on the planet.
Two-thirds of the populations that were studied are experiencing a decline in genetic diversity. Nevertheless, conservation strategies aimed at enhancing environmental conditions, boosting populations, and introducing new individuals for breeding — including habitat restoration and relocating animals — are successfully maintaining, and in some cases increasing, genetic diversity among these populations.
Associate Professor Grueber noted: “It’s undeniable that biodiversity is decreasing at unprecedented rates around the world — yet we see signs of hope. The efforts of conservationists are starting to reverse these losses and are contributing to the creation of genetically diverse populations that can better adapt to future challenges.”
The research team utilized innovations in genetic analysis to derive fresh insights from studies conducted many years ago. By establishing a common measurement scale, they managed to compare various studies, even when different methodologies and data collection techniques were employed.
“A comprehensive global study like this wouldn’t have been feasible as recently as a decade ago,” commented Associate Professor Grueber.
“Recent advancements in genetics and statistics have equipped us with new tools, allowing us to extract valuable knowledge from studies long after they were completed — a significant advantage when assessing global trends in populations.”
Conservation strategies that could enhance or preserve genetic diversity include translocations — moving animals between populations to benefit a species or ecosystem — restoring habitats, controlling population sizes by removing certain individuals to improve conditions for the remaining ones, and managing invasive or pest species.
Successful conservation cases include the reintroduction of the golden bandicoot in Western Australia, the release of arctic foxes from captive breeding programs in Scandinavia, the translocation of greater prairie chickens into existing populations in North America, and effective disease management in black-tailed prairie dog colonies, which has led to improved health in northern Montana populations in the US.
The authors hope their findings will inspire more conservation initiatives and result in stronger protections for unprotected populations.
Co-first author, Dr. Robyn Shaw from the University of Canberra, remarked: “While we celebrate our successes, we must not be complacent. Two-thirds of the studied populations are under threat, and among those, fewer than half have any form of conservation management. It is crucial to learn from what works so we can ensure the long-term protection of these species.”
Case Study Animals
More details on the species highlighted in the study that have benefited from conservation actions and seen an enhancement in genetic diversity, with additional examples available from researchers.
- Golden bandicoot (Isoodon auratus): An endangered Australian species where genetic diversity has been successfully preserved by establishing new populations in Western Australia.
- Scandinavian arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus): This species has declined significantly due to the fur trade, now existing in smaller population sizes and competing with red foxes, among other threats. A combination of conservation strategies, including supplemental feeding, red fox removal, and releases from breeding programs, have helped maintain and, in some cases, boost genetic diversity and population size.
- Black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus): This species faces threats from plague spread by fleas in the wild. Conservationists have used insecticides in prairie dog burrows to control fleas, leading to improved gene flow and increased genetic diversity.
- Greater prairie chicken (Tympanuchus cupido pinnatus): Efforts to reorganize animal populations and restore habitats have enhanced genetic diversity and minimized inbreeding, positively influencing population viability.
- Hine’s emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana): This endangered US species has experienced declines and habitat fragmentation due to loss of habitat. Intensive management to preserve and reconnect habitats is aiding in the maintenance of genetic diversity and encouraging population growth.
- Dusky gopher frog (Lithobates sevosus): A critically endangered Mississippi species with a very small population and low genetic diversity is seeing improvements through conservation efforts such as “headstarting” (raising tadpoles in tanks) along with careful management of wetlands and fire risks.
