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Conservation genomics is the application of genomic analysis to the preservation of the viability of populations and the biodiversity of living organisms. Genomic methods can be used to argue species identity, degree of hybridization, genetic diversity, demographic history and effective population size.
Industrial whaling drove several species to near extinction. From an analysis of 50 whole-genomes from fin whale populations, this study shows that the fin whale population in the Eastern North Pacific was reduced 99% during whaling but has maintained genomic diversity, whereas the Gulf of California population remained small and isolated, resulting in increased genetic load.
The kākāpō is an intensively managed parrot endemic to New Zealand. Using genome sequencing data for all living kākāpō together with long-term phenotypic data, the authors devise an approach to identify genetic associations with fitness traits, which is informing species recovery plans.
Guhlin et al. sequenced the genomes of almost the entire extant population of the critically-endangered kākāpō, revealing genetic variants for fitness-related traits that can inform conservation strategies.
Genome sequences of all living kākāpō provide new approaches for evidence-based conservation management, including the identification of genomic regions that are associated with fitness traits, at a time of increased need for breeding programmes for species recovery.
Using whole-genome sequencing and haplotype tracking, Viluma et al. show that the small, highly inbred Scandinavian wolf population has lost substantial genetic diversity over a 30-year period. Their findings have important implications for the management and conservation of endangered species.
A paper in Nature Genetics reports a high-quality reference genome for the koala, with insights into its specialized lifestyle, and potential applications in vaccine development and conservation strategies.
