Genetic diversity is declining but progress can be slowed
Isolated populations of the endangered Scandinavian arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) have become inbred. Picture: Pixabay.
Gene pools are getting dangerously shallow for many species. A research team has found 5 ways to help.
Sara Kurland, post-doc at the Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University. Photo: Viktor Jacobsson, Uppsala University.
For a species to be able to adapt to changes in its environment, a high level of genetic variation between individuals is crucial. The greater the diversity, the more likely it is that certain genes will make, for example, a plant more resistant to drought or an animal better adapted to higher temperatures. These genes can then be passed on to future generations and contribute to the survival of the species.
An international team of researchers, including Uppsala University, Stockholm University and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, has analysed genetic changes in 628 species over a period of more than 30 years. The study is based on data from more than 80,000 scientific papers and shows that genetic diversity is declining globally, especially among birds and mammals. At the same time, there are conservation measures that have proven to be effective. Sara Kurland, postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, is one of the researchers behind the study.
Read the interview with Sara Kurland on the Swedish news page.
Article in Nature: “Global meta-analysis shows action is needed to halt genetic diversity loss”.
Article in The Conversation: “Gene pools are getting dangerously shallow for many species. We found 5 ways to help”
For mote information contact Sara Kurland:
E-mail: sara.kurland@geo.uu.se
Mobile: 072-1512430