Using genomics to characterize evolutionary potential for conservation of wild populations.

ABSTRACT: Genomics promises exciting advances towards the important conservation goal of maximizing evolutionary potential, notwithstanding associated challenges. Here, we explore some of the complexity of adaptation genetics and discuss the strengths and limitations of genomics as a tool for characterizing evolutionary potential in the context of conservation management. Many traits are polygenic and can be strongly influenced by minor differences in regulatory networks and by epigenetic variation not visible in DNA sequence. Much of this critical complexity is difficult to detect using methods commonly used to identify adaptive variation, and this needs appropriate consideration when planning genomic screens, and when basing management decisions on genomic data. When the genomic basis of adaptatio

SUBMITTER: Harrisson KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4231592 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature