Ancient DNA applications for wildlife conservation

Ancient DNA analyses of historical, archaeological and paleontological remains can contribute important information for the conservation of populations and species that cannot be obtained any other way. In addition to ancient DNA analyses involving a single or few individuals, population level studi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Molecular ecology 2008-10, Vol.17 (19), p.4186-4196
Main Author: LEONARD, JENNIFER A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
aDNA
Animals
Animals, Wild - genetics
Biologi
Biology
Birds - genetics
Breeding - methods
Breeding - standards
Climate
Climate change
Conservation genetics
Conservation of Natural Resources
Deoxyribonucleic acid
DNA
DNA - genetics
Drift
Earth sciences
Ecology
Endangered species
Exogen geovetenskap
Exogenous earth sciences
Extinction
Fishes - genetics
Fossils
Gene Flow
Genetic Drift
Genetic Variation
Geovetenskap
Greenhouse Effect
Historical geology and palaeontology
Historisk geologi och paleontologi
Humans
Hybridization
Mammals - genetics
Molecular biology
NATURAL SCIENCES
NATURVETENSKAP
Paleontology
Population Density
Social Responsibility
Wildlife conservation
Wildlife management
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Summary:Ancient DNA analyses of historical, archaeological and paleontological remains can contribute important information for the conservation of populations and species that cannot be obtained any other way. In addition to ancient DNA analyses involving a single or few individuals, population level studies are now possible. Biases inherent in estimating population parameters and history from modern genetic diversity are exaggerated when populations are small or have been heavily impacted by recent events, as is common for many endangered species. Going directly back in time to study past populations removes many of the assumptions that undermine conclusions based only on recent populations. Accurate characterization of historic population size, levels of gene flow and relationships with other populations are fundamental to developing appropriate conservation and management plans. The incorporation of ancient DNA into conservation genetics holds a lot of potential, if it is employed responsibly.
ISSN:0962-1083
1365-294X
1365-294X
DOI:10.1111/j.1365-294X.2008.03891.x