1
|
Davies T, Cando‐Dumancela C, Liddicoat C, Dresken R, Damen RH, Edwards RA, Ramesh SA, Breed MF. Ecological phage therapy: Can bacteriophages help rapidly restore the soil microbiome? Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e70185. [PMID: 39145040 PMCID: PMC11322231 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.70185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Soil microbiota underpin ecosystem functionality yet are rarely targeted during ecosystem restoration. Soil microbiota recovery following native plant revegetation can take years to decades, while the effectiveness of soil inoculation treatments on microbiomes remains poorly explored. Therefore, innovative restoration treatments that target soil microbiota represent an opportunity to accelerate restoration outcomes. Here, we introduce the concept of ecological phage therapy-the application of phage for the targeted reduction of the most abundant and dominant bacterial taxa present in degraded ecosystems. We propose that naturally occurring bacteriophages-viruses that infect bacteria-could help rapidly shift soil microbiota towards target communities. Bacteriophages sculpt the microbiome by lysis of specific bacteria, and if followed by the addition of reference soil microbiota, such treatments could facilitate rapid reshaping of soil microbiota. Here, we experimentally tested this concept in a pilot study. We collected five replicate pre-treatment degraded soil samples, then three replicate soil samples 48 hours after phage, bacteria, and control treatments. Bacterial 16S rDNA sequencing showed that phage-treated soils had reduced bacterial diversity; however, when we combined ecological phage therapy with reference soil inoculation, we did not see a shift in soil bacterial community composition from degraded soil towards a reference-like community. Our pilot study provides early evidence that ecological phage therapy could help accelerate the reshaping of soil microbiota with the ultimate aim of reducing timeframes for ecosystem recovery. We recommend the next steps for ecological phage therapy be (a) developing appropriate risk assessment and management frameworks, and (b) focussing research effort on its practical application to maximise its accessibility to restoration practitioners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tarryn Davies
- College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversityBedford ParkSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | | | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversityBedford ParkSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Romy Dresken
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Rudolf H. Damen
- College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversityBedford ParkSouth AustraliaAustralia
- HAN University of Applied SciencesNijmegenNetherlands
| | - Robert A. Edwards
- College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversityBedford ParkSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Sunita A. Ramesh
- College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversityBedford ParkSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversityBedford ParkSouth AustraliaAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Peddle SD, Hodgson RJ, Borrett RJ, Brachmann S, Davies TC, Erickson TE, Liddicoat C, Muñoz-Rojas M, Robinson JM, Watson CD, Krauss SL, Breed MF. Practical applications of soil microbiota to improve ecosystem restoration: current knowledge and future directions. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024. [PMID: 39075839 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Soil microbiota are important components of healthy ecosystems. Greater consideration of soil microbiota in the restoration of biodiverse, functional, and resilient ecosystems is required to address the twin global crises of biodiversity decline and climate change. In this review, we discuss available and emerging practical applications of soil microbiota into (i) restoration planning, (ii) direct interventions for shaping soil biodiversity, and (iii) strategies for monitoring and predicting restoration trajectories. We show how better planning of restoration activities to account for soil microbiota can help improve progress towards restoration targets. We show how planning to embed soil microbiota experiments into restoration projects will permit a more rigorous assessment of the effectiveness of different restoration methods, especially when complemented by statistical modelling approaches that capitalise on existing data sets to improve causal understandings and prioritise research strategies where appropriate. In addition to recovering belowground microbiota, restoration strategies that include soil microbiota can improve the resilience of whole ecosystems. Fundamentally, restoration planning should identify appropriate reference target ecosystem attributes and - from the perspective of soil microbiota - comprehensibly consider potential physical, chemical and biological influences on recovery. We identify that inoculating ecologically appropriate soil microbiota into degraded environments can support a range of restoration interventions (e.g. targeted, broad-spectrum and cultured inoculations) with promising results. Such inoculations however are currently underutilised and knowledge gaps persist surrounding successful establishment in light of community dynamics, including priority effects and community coalescence. We show how the ecological trajectories of restoration sites can be assessed by characterising microbial diversity, composition, and functions in the soil. Ultimately, we highlight practical ways to apply the soil microbiota toolbox across the planning, intervention, and monitoring stages of ecosystem restoration and address persistent open questions at each stage. With continued collaborations between researchers and practitioners to address knowledge gaps, these approaches can improve current restoration practices and ecological outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shawn D Peddle
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Riley J Hodgson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Ryan J Borrett
- SoilsWest, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - Stella Brachmann
- University of Waikato Te Whare Wananga o Waikato Gate 1, Knighton Road, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Tarryn C Davies
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Todd E Erickson
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kings Park Science, Kattidj Close, Kings Park, Western Australia, 6005, Australia
- Centre for Engineering Innovation, School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Miriam Muñoz-Rojas
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, University of Seville, C. San Fernando, Sevilla, Spain
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Ecosystem Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Jake M Robinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Carl D Watson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Siegfried L Krauss
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kings Park Science, Kattidj Close, Kings Park, Western Australia, 6005, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Noh ES, Lee MN, Dong CM, Park J, Jung HS, Kim WJ, Kim YO. SNP Array for Small-Shrimp (Genus Acetes) Origin Determination Using Machine Learning. Foods 2024; 13:2087. [PMID: 38998595 PMCID: PMC11241690 DOI: 10.3390/foods13132087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Accurate origin determination of seafood is crucial for consumer trust and safety. This study was performed to develop a machine learning-based single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis technique to determine the origin of Acetes species in salted small-shrimp products. Mitochondrial DNA (COI and 16S rRNA) analysis revealed genetic variations among species and origins. Eight candidate SNPs were identified, six of which were developed into markers for genotyping analysis. Using the developed markers, an SNP array was created and SNP data from salted small-shrimp samples were obtained. Machine learning analysis using a supervised learning algorithm achieved 100% accuracy in classifying the origin of Acetes based on SNP data. This method offers a reliable method for regulatory bodies to combat food fraud and ensure product integrity. The approach can be further improved by expanding the data set to encompass a wider range of species and origins. This study highlights the potential of SNP analysis and machine learning for ensuring seafood authenticity and promoting sustainable practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Soo Noh
- Biotechnology Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science, 216, Gijanghaean-ro, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan 46083, Republic of Korea; (M.N.L.); (C.-M.D.); (J.P.); (H.S.J.); (W.-J.K.); (Y.-O.K.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Waterhouse RM, Adam-Blondon AF, Balech B, Barta E, Ying Shi Chua P, Di Cola V, Heil KF, Hughes GM, Jermiin LS, Kalaš M, Lanfear J, Pafilis E, Palagi PM, Papageorgiou AC, Paupério J, Psomopoulos F, Raes N, Burgin J, Gabaldón T. The ELIXIR Biodiversity Community: Understanding short- and long-term changes in biodiversity. F1000Res 2024; 12:ELIXIR-499. [PMID: 38882711 PMCID: PMC11179050 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.133724.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Biodiversity loss is now recognised as one of the major challenges for humankind to address over the next few decades. Unless major actions are taken, the sixth mass extinction will lead to catastrophic effects on the Earth's biosphere and human health and well-being. ELIXIR can help address the technical challenges of biodiversity science, through leveraging its suite of services and expertise to enable data management and analysis activities that enhance our understanding of life on Earth and facilitate biodiversity preservation and restoration. This white paper, prepared by the ELIXIR Biodiversity Community, summarises the current status and responses, and presents a set of plans, both technical and community-oriented, that should both enhance how ELIXIR Services are applied in the biodiversity field and how ELIXIR builds connections across the many other infrastructures active in this area. We discuss the areas of highest priority, how they can be implemented in cooperation with the ELIXIR Platforms, and their connections to existing ELIXIR Communities and international consortia. The article provides a preliminary blueprint for a Biodiversity Community in ELIXIR and is an appeal to identify and involve new stakeholders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M. Waterhouse
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Universite de Lausanne, Lausanne, Vaud, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Françoise Adam-Blondon
- INRAE, BioinfOmics, Plant Bioinformatics Facility, Universite Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, Île-de-France, 78026, France
| | - Bachir Balech
- Istituto di Biomembrane, Bioenergetica e Biotecnologie Molecolari, Bari, 70126, Italy
| | - Endre Barta
- Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Magyar Agrar- es Elettudomanyi Egyetem, Gödöllő, Pest County, Hungary
| | | | - Valeria Di Cola
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Vaud, 1015, Switzerland
| | | | - Graham M. Hughes
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
| | - Lars S. Jermiin
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Matúš Kalaš
- Department of Informatics, Universitetet i Bergen, Bergen, Hordaland, Norway
| | - Jerry Lanfear
- ELIXIR, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, England, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Evangelos Pafilis
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Heraklion, 71003, Greece
| | - Patricia M. Palagi
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Vaud, 1015, Switzerland
| | | | - Joana Paupério
- EMBL-EBI, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, England, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Fotis Psomopoulos
- Institute of Applied Biosciences, Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Niels Raes
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, South Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Josephine Burgin
- EMBL-EBI, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, England, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Toni Gabaldón
- Institut de Recerca Biomedica, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Supercomputacion, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cortés AJ. Abiotic Stress Tolerance Boosted by Genetic Diversity in Plants. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5367. [PMID: 38791404 PMCID: PMC11121514 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Plant breeding [...].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrés J. Cortés
- Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria AGROSAVIA, C.I. La Selva, Km 7 vía Rionegro—Las Palmas, Rionegro 054048, Colombia;
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias—de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Nacional de Colombia—Sede Medellín, Medellín 050034, Colombia
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Lomma 23436, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Robinson JM, Liddicoat C, Muñoz-Rojas M, Breed MF. Restoring soil biodiversity. Curr Biol 2024; 34:R393-R398. [PMID: 38714171 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Soil health is crucial for all terrestrial life, supporting, among other processes, food production, water purification and carbon sequestration. Soil biodiversity - the variety of life within soils - is key to these processes and thus key to soil restoration. Human activities that degrade ecosystems threaten soil biodiversity and associated ecosystem processes. Indeed, 75% of the world's soils are affected by degradation - a figure that could rise to 90% by 2050 if deforestation, overgrazing, urbanisation and other harmful practices persist. Restoring soil biodiversity is a prerequisite for planetary health, and it comes with many challenges and opportunities. Soil directly supports around 60% of all species on Earth, and land degradation poses a major problem for this biodiversity and the ecosystem services that sustain human populations. Indeed, 98% of human calories come from soil, and earthworms alone underpin 6.5% of the world's grain production. Moreover, the total carbon in terrestrial ecosystems is around 3,170 gigatons (1 gigaton (Gt) = 1 billion metric tons), of which approximately 80% (2,500 Gt) is found in soil. Therefore, restoring soil biodiversity is not just a human need but an ecological and Earth-system imperative. It is pivotal for maintaining ecosystem resilience, sustaining agricultural productivity and mitigating climate change impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Robinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Miriam Muñoz-Rojas
- Departamento de Biologia Vegetal y Ecologia, Universidad de Sevilla, 41004 Sevilla, Spain; Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Prakash A, Capblancq T, Shallows K, Saville D, Landau D, Landress C, Jacobs T, Keller S. Bringing genomics to the field: An integrative approach to seed sourcing for forest restoration. APPLICATIONS IN PLANT SCIENCES 2024; 12:e11600. [PMID: 38912128 PMCID: PMC11192164 DOI: 10.1002/aps3.11600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Premise Global anthropogenic change threatens the health and productivity of forest ecosystems. Assisted migration and reforestation are tools to help mitigate these impacts. However, questions remain about how to approach sourcing seeds to ensure high establishment and future adaptability. Methods Using exome-capture sequencing, we demonstrate a computational approach to finding the best n-sets from a candidate list of seed sources that collectively achieve high genetic diversity (GD) and minimal genetic load (GL), while also increasing evolvability in quantitative traits. The benefits of this three-part strategy (diversity-load-evolvability) are to increase near-term establishment success while also boosting evolutionary potential to respond to future stressors. Members of The Nature Conservancy and the Central Appalachian Spruce Restoration Initiative planted 58,000 seedlings across 255 acres. A subset of seedlings was monitored for establishment success and variation in growth. Results The results show gains in GD relative to GL and increases in quantitative genetic variation in seedling growth for pooled vs. single-source restoration. No single "super source" was observed across planting sites; rather, monitoring results demonstrate that pooling of multiple sources helps achieve higher GD:GL and evolvability. Discussion Our study shows the potential for integrating genomics into local-scale restoration and the importance of building partnerships between academic researchers and applied conservation managers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anoob Prakash
- Department of Plant BiologyUniversity of VermontBurlingtonVermontUSA
| | - Thibaut Capblancq
- Department of Plant BiologyUniversity of VermontBurlingtonVermontUSA
- Laboratoire d'Écologie Alpine, Université Grenoble‐Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRSGrenobleFrance
| | - Kathryn Shallows
- Central Appalachians Program, The Nature ConservancyElkinsWest VirginiaUSA
| | - David Saville
- Appalachian Forest Restoration LLCMorgantownWest VirginiaUSA
| | - Deborah Landau
- Maryland/DC Chapter, The Nature ConservancyBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Chad Landress
- USDA Forest Service, Monongahela National ForestElkinsWest VirginiaUSA
| | - Tal Jacobs
- Clinch Valley Program, The Nature ConservancyAbingdonVirginiaUSA
| | - Stephen Keller
- Department of Plant BiologyUniversity of VermontBurlingtonVermontUSA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Simaika JP, Stribling J, Lento J, Bruder A, Poikane S, Moretti MS, Rivers-Moore N, Meissner K, Macadam CR. Towards harmonized standards for freshwater biodiversity monitoring and biological assessment using benthic macroinvertebrates. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170360. [PMID: 38311088 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Monitoring programs at sub-national and national scales lack coordination, harmonization, and systematic review and analysis at continental and global scales, and thus fail to adequately assess and evaluate drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem degradation and loss at large spatial scales. Here we review the state of the art, gaps and challenges in the freshwater assessment programs for both the biological condition (bioassessment) and biodiversity monitoring of freshwater ecosystems using the benthic macroinvertebrate community. To assess the existence of nationally- and regionally- (sub-nationally-) accepted freshwater benthic macroinvertebrate protocols that are put in practice/used in each country, we conducted a survey from November 2022 to May 2023. Responses from 110 respondents based in 67 countries were received. Although the responses varied in their consistency, the responses clearly demonstrated a lack of biodiversity monitoring being done at both national and sub-national levels for lakes, rivers and artificial waterbodies. Programs for bioassessment were more widespread, and in some cases even harmonized among several countries. We identified 20 gaps and challenges, which we classed into five major categories, these being (a) field sampling, (b) sample processing and identification, (c) metrics and indices, (d) assessment, and (e) other gaps and challenges. Above all, we identify the lack of harmonization as one of the most important gaps, hindering efficient collaboration and communication. We identify the IUCN SSC Global Freshwater Macroinvertebrate Sampling Protocols Task Force (GLOSAM) as a means to address the lack of globally-harmonized biodiversity monitoring and biological assessment protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John P Simaika
- Department of Water Resources and Ecosystems, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, the Netherlands.
| | - James Stribling
- Tetra Tech, Inc., Center for Ecological Sciences, Owings Mills, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer Lento
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Andreas Bruder
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland. Mendrisio, Switzerland
| | | | - Marcelo S Moretti
- Laboratory of Aquatic Insect Ecology, University of Vila Velha, Vila Velha, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Nick Rivers-Moore
- Centre for Water Resources Research, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | | | - Craig R Macadam
- Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang X, Zhou Z, Zijing L, Xia L, Song S, Meza JVG, Montes ML, Li J. Surge of native rare taxa in tailings soil induced by peat bacterial invasion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168596. [PMID: 37972774 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The pivotal role of the native bacterial community in maintaining soil health, particularly in degraded tailings environments, is often overlooked. This study utilized peat, rich in microorganisms, to investigate its impact on soil function and native bacteria response in copper tailings-soil. Through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, changes in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and microbial activity were assessed post one-year peat remediation. Results from FEAST and cluster analysis revealed that peat-derived species disproportionately influenced tailings microbial community remediation, supported by the microbial invasion theory. Tailings responded positively to these species, with optimal function achieved at 5 % peat dosage. Peat biomarkers (Actinobacteriota, Bacteroida, Chloroflexi, and Firmicutes) played key roles in heavy metal removal and nutrition fixation. The Random Forest model and co-occurrence network highlighted contributions from native rare species (Dependentiae and Latescibacterota) activated by peat addition. These insights underscore the resilience of rare taxa and provide a foundation for soil health restoration in tailings areas. By emphasizing the importance of peat as a potential exogenous solution for activating indigenous microbial functions, these findings offer valuable insights for developing effective and sustainable remediation strategies in mining-affected regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xizhuo Wang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wenzhi Street 34, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430070, China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wenzhi Street 34, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430070, China
| | - Lu Zijing
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wenzhi Street 34, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430070, China
| | - Ling Xia
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wenzhi Street 34, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430070, China.
| | - Shaoxian Song
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wenzhi Street 34, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430070, China
| | - J Viridiana García Meza
- Instituto de Física, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Av. Manuel Nava 6, Zona Universitaria, C.P., San Luis Potosí 78290, Mexico
| | | | - Jianbo Li
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wenzhi Street 34, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430070, China; Instituto de Física, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Av. Manuel Nava 6, Zona Universitaria, C.P., San Luis Potosí 78290, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hoste A, Capblancq T, Broquet T, Denoyelle L, Perrier C, Buzan E, Šprem N, Corlatti L, Crestanello B, Hauffe HC, Pellissier L, Yannic G. Projection of current and future distribution of adaptive genetic units in an alpine ungulate. Heredity (Edinb) 2024; 132:54-66. [PMID: 38082151 PMCID: PMC10798982 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-023-00661-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Climate projections predict major changes in alpine environments by the end of the 21st century. To avoid climate-induced maladaptation and extinction, many animal populations will either need to move to more suitable habitats or adapt in situ to novel conditions. Since populations of a species exhibit genetic variation related to local adaptation, it is important to incorporate this variation into predictive models to help assess the ability of the species to survive climate change. Here, we evaluate how the adaptive genetic variation of a mountain ungulate-the Northern chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra)-could be impacted by future global warming. Based on genotype-environment association analyses of 429 chamois using a ddRAD sequencing approach, we identified genetic variation associated with climatic gradients across the European Alps. We then delineated adaptive genetic units and projected the optimal distribution of these adaptive groups in the future. Our results suggest the presence of local adaptation to climate in Northern chamois with similar genetic adaptive responses in geographically distant but climatically similar populations. Furthermore, our results predict that future climatic changes will modify the Northern chamois adaptive landscape considerably, with various degrees of maladaptation risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Hoste
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Thibaut Capblancq
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, 38000, Grenoble, France
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Thomas Broquet
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, UMR 7144, Station Biologique de Roscoff, Place Georges Teissier, 29680, Roscoff, France
| | - Laure Denoyelle
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Charles Perrier
- UMR CBGP, INRAE, CIRAD, IRD, Institut Agro, Université Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Elena Buzan
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000, Koper, Slovenia
- Faculty of Environmental Protection, Trg mladosti 7, 3320, Velenje, Slovenia
| | - Nikica Šprem
- Department of Fisheries, Apiculture, Wildlife Management and Special Zoology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska 25, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Luca Corlatti
- Stelvio National Park - ERSAF Lombardia, Via De Simoni 42, 23032, Bormio, Italy
- Chair of Wildlife Ecology and Management, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacher Straße 4, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Crestanello
- Conservation Genomics Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione E. Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38098 S, Michele all'Adige, TN, Italy
| | - Heidi Christine Hauffe
- Conservation Genomics Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione E. Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38098 S, Michele all'Adige, TN, Italy
| | - Loïc Pellissier
- Landscape Ecology, Department of Environmental Systems Science, Institute of Terrestrial Ecosystems, ETH Zrich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Glenn Yannic
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, 38000, Grenoble, France.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Robinson JM, Hodgson R, Krauss SL, Liddicoat C, Malik AA, Martin BC, Mohr JJ, Moreno-Mateos D, Muñoz-Rojas M, Peddle SD, Breed MF. Opportunities and challenges for microbiomics in ecosystem restoration. Trends Ecol Evol 2023; 38:1189-1202. [PMID: 37648570 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Microbiomics is the science of characterizing microbial community structure, function, and dynamics. It has great potential to advance our understanding of plant-soil-microbe processes and interaction networks which can be applied to improve ecosystem restoration. However, microbiomics may be perceived as complex and the technology is not accessible to all. The opportunities of microbiomics in restoration ecology are considerable, but so are the practical challenges. Applying microbiomics in restoration must move beyond compositional assessments to incorporate tools to study the complexity of ecosystem recovery. Advances in metaomic tools provide unprecedented possibilities to aid restoration interventions. Moreover, complementary non-omic applications, such as microbial inoculants and biopriming, have the potential to improve restoration objectives by enhancing the establishment and health of vegetation communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Robinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; The Aerobiome Innovation & Research Hub, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Riley Hodgson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Siegfried L Krauss
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions, Fraser Avenue, Kings Park, WA 6005, Australia; Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Ashish A Malik
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3UU, UK
| | - Belinda C Martin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Ooid Scientific, North Lake, WA 6162, Australia
| | - Jakki J Mohr
- College of Business, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - David Moreno-Mateos
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road. Oxford OX1 3QY, UK; Department of Landscape Architecture, Graduate School of Design, Harvard University, Quincy Street. Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Basque Center for Climate Change - BC3, Ikerbasque Foundation for Science. Edificio Sede 1, Parque Cientifico UPV, 04940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Miriam Muñoz-Rojas
- Departamento de Biologia Vegetal y Ecologia. Universidad de Sevilla, 41004 Sevilla, Spain; Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Shawn D Peddle
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Krebs R, Farrington KE, Johnson GR, Luckarift HR, Diltz RA, Owens JR. Biotechnology to reduce logistics burden and promote environmental stewardship for Air Force civil engineering requirements. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 69:108269. [PMID: 37797730 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
This review provides discussion of advances in biotechnology with specific application to civil engineering requirements for airfield and airbase operations. The broad objectives are soil stabilization, waste management, and environmental protection. The biotechnology focal areas address (1) treatment of soil and sand by biomineralization and biopolymer addition, (2) reduction of solid organic waste by anaerobic digestion, (3) application of microbes and higher plants for biological processing of contaminated wastewater, and (4) use of indigenous materials for airbase construction and repair. The consideration of these methods in military operating scenarios, including austere environments, involves comparison with conventional techniques. All four focal areas potentially reduce logistics burden, increase environmental sustainability, and may provide energy source, or energy-neutral practices that benefit military operations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Krebs
- Battelle Memorial Institute, 505 King Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201, USA.
| | - Karen E Farrington
- ARCTOS, LLC, 2601 Mission Point Blvd., Ste. 300, Beavercreek, OH 45431, USA; Air Force Civil Engineer Center, 139 Barnes Drive, Suite #2, Tyndall Air Force Base, FL 32403, USA.
| | - Glenn R Johnson
- Battelle Memorial Institute, 505 King Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201, USA; Air Force Civil Engineer Center, 139 Barnes Drive, Suite #2, Tyndall Air Force Base, FL 32403, USA.
| | - Heather R Luckarift
- Battelle Memorial Institute, 505 King Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201, USA; Air Force Civil Engineer Center, 139 Barnes Drive, Suite #2, Tyndall Air Force Base, FL 32403, USA.
| | - Robert A Diltz
- Air Force Civil Engineer Center, 139 Barnes Drive, Suite #2, Tyndall Air Force Base, FL 32403, USA.
| | - Jeffery R Owens
- Air Force Civil Engineer Center, 139 Barnes Drive, Suite #2, Tyndall Air Force Base, FL 32403, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ghildiyal K, Nayak SS, Rajawat D, Sharma A, Chhotaray S, Bhushan B, Dutt T, Panigrahi M. Genomic insights into the conservation of wild and domestic animal diversity: A review. Gene 2023; 886:147719. [PMID: 37597708 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Due to environmental change and anthropogenic activities, global biodiversity has suffered an unprecedented loss, and the world is now heading toward the sixth mass extinction event. This urges the need to step up our efforts to promote the sustainable use of animal genetic resources and plan effective strategies for their conservation. Although habitat preservation and restoration are the primary means of conserving biodiversity, genomic technologies offer a variety of novel tools for identifying biodiversity hotspots and thus, support conservation efforts. Conservation genomics is a broad area of science that encompasses the application of genomic data from thousands or tens of thousands of genome-wide markers to address important conservation biology concerns. Genomic approaches have revolutionized the way we understand and manage animal populations, providing tools to identify and preserve unique genetic variants and alleles responsible for adaptive genetic variation, reducing the deleterious consequences of inbreeding, and increasing the adaptive potential of threatened species. The advancement of genomic technologies, particularly comparative genomic approaches, and the increased accessibility of genomic resources in the form of genome-enabled taxa for non-model organisms, provides a distinct advantage in defining conservation units over traditional genetics approaches. The objective of this review is to provide an exhaustive overview of the concept of conservation genomics, discuss the rationale behind the transition from conservation genetics to genomic approaches, and emphasize the potential applications of genomic techniques for conservation purposes. We also highlight interesting case studies in both livestock and wildlife species where genomic techniques have been used to accomplish conservation goals. Finally, we address some challenges and future perspectives in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Ghildiyal
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Sonali Sonejita Nayak
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Divya Rajawat
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Anurodh Sharma
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Supriya Chhotaray
- Animal Genetics and Breeding Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Bharat Bhushan
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Triveni Dutt
- Livestock Production and Management Section, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Manjit Panigrahi
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rothe H, Lauer KB, Talbot-Cooper C, Sivizaca Conde DJ. Digital entrepreneurship from cellular data: How omics afford the emergence of a new wave of digital ventures in health. ELECTRONIC MARKETS 2023; 33:48. [PMID: 37724180 PMCID: PMC10505108 DOI: 10.1007/s12525-023-00669-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Data has become an indispensable input, throughput, and output for the healthcare industry. In recent years, omics technologies such as genomics and proteomics have generated vast amounts of new data at the cellular level including molecular, structural, and functional levels. Cellular data holds the potential to innovate therapeutics, vaccines, diagnostics, consumer products, or even ancestry services. However, data at the cellular level is generated with rapidly evolving omics technologies. These technologies use scientific knowledge from resource-rich environments. This raises the question of how new ventures can use cellular-level data from omics technologies to create new products and scale their business. We report on a series of interviews and a focus group discussion with entrepreneurs, investors, and data providers. By conceptualizing omics technologies as external enablers, we show how characteristics of cellular-level data negatively affect the combination mechanisms that drive venture creation and growth. We illustrate how data characteristics set boundary conditions for innovation and entrepreneurship and highlight how ventures seek to mitigate their impact. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12525-023-00669-w.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Rothe
- University of Duisburg Essen, Institute for Computer Science and Business Information Systems, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rosser NL, Quinton A, Davey H, Ayre DJ, Denham AJ. Genetic assessment of the value of restoration planting within an endangered eucalypt woodland. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6583. [PMID: 37085553 PMCID: PMC10121665 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33720-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessment of woodland restoration often focusses on stand demographics, but genetic factors likely influence long-term stand viability. We examined the genetic composition of Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora) trees in endangered Box-Gum Grassy Woodland in SE Australia, some 30 years after planting with seeds of reportedly local provenance. Using DArT sequencing for 1406 SNPs, we compared genetic diversity and population structure of planted E. melliodora trees with remnant bushland trees, paddock trees and natural recruits. Genetic patterns imply that natural stands and paddock trees had historically high gene flow (among group pairwise FST = 0.04-0.10). Genetic diversity was highest among relictual paddock trees (He = 0.17), while diversity of revegetated trees was identical to natural bushland trees (He = 0.14). Bayesian clustering placed the revegetated trees into six genetic groups with four corresponding to genotypes from paddock trees, indicating that revegetated stands are mainly of genetically diverse, local provenance. Natural recruits were largely derived from paddock trees with some contribution from planted trees. A few trees have likely hybridised with other local eucalypt species which are unlikely to compromise stand integrity. We show that paddock trees have high genetic diversity and capture historic genetic variety and provide important foci for natural recruitment of genetically diverse and outcrossed seedlings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie L Rosser
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony Quinton
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Huw Davey
- Independent Researcher, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - David J Ayre
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew J Denham
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- Science, Economics and Insights Division, NSW Department of Planning and Environment, Parramatta, NSW, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
De León LF, Silva B, Avilés-Rodríguez KJ, Buitrago-Rosas D. Harnessing the omics revolution to address the global biodiversity crisis. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2023; 80:102901. [PMID: 36773576 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.102901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Human disturbances are altering global biodiversity in unprecedented ways. We identify three fundamental challenges underpinning our understanding of global biodiversity (namely discovery, loss, and preservation), and discuss how the omics revolution (e.g. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and meta-omics) can help address these challenges. We also discuss how omics tools can illuminate the major drivers of biodiversity loss, including invasive species, pollution, urbanization, overexploitation, and climate change, with a special focus on highly diverse tropical environments. Although omics tools are transforming the traditional toolkit of biodiversity research, their application to addressing the current biodiversity crisis remains limited and may not suffice to offset current rates of biodiversity loss. Despite technical and logistical challenges, omics tools need to be fully integrated into global biodiversity research, and better strategies are needed to improve their translation into biodiversity policy and practice. It is also important to recognize that although the omics revolution can be considered the biologist's dream, socioeconomic disparity limits their application in biodiversity research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis F De León
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA.
| | - Bruna Silva
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Kevin J Avilés-Rodríguez
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA; Department of Biology, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Colunga-Salas P, Marines-Macías T, Hernández-Canchola G, Barbosa S, Ramírez C, Searle JB, León-Paniagua L. Population genomics reveals differences in genetic structure between two endemic arboreal rodent species in threatened cloud forest habitat. MAMMAL RES 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-022-00667-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Genomic tools are now commonly used to assess the genetic diversity and genetic structure of species and populations, and they provide the ability to describe and address the negative effects of population declines and fragmentation. However, such studies are lacking for arboreal mammals despite their contribution to various ecosystem services, especially in uncommon and critically endangered ecosystems such as cloud forests. The aim of this work was to evaluate and compare the genetic diversity and population structure of two endemic arboreal mice from Mexican cloud forests that are associated with areas with different levels of impacts from human activities. We performed genotyping-by-sequencing in 47 Habromys schmidlyi and 17 Reithrodontomys wagneri individuals to evaluate genetic diversity and differentiation. In both species, the genetic diversity was low compared to other cricetid species, and we observed different population structure patterns, potentially linked to the different ecological associations. We detected two genetic groups in H. schmidlyi, that is a territorial species present in areas of low incline, while a single genetic group was found in R. wagneri, which forms family groups in areas with steep slopes. Overall, these results highlight how species’ genetic diversity can be differentially impacted depending on differential ecological associations within the same ecosystem. This information is essential for the development of the adequate conservation and management of these species.
Collapse
|
18
|
Theissinger K, Fernandes C, Formenti G, Bista I, Berg PR, Bleidorn C, Bombarely A, Crottini A, Gallo GR, Godoy JA, Jentoft S, Malukiewicz J, Mouton A, Oomen RA, Paez S, Palsbøll PJ, Pampoulie C, Ruiz-López MJ, Secomandi S, Svardal H, Theofanopoulou C, de Vries J, Waldvogel AM, Zhang G, Jarvis ED, Bálint M, Ciofi C, Waterhouse RM, Mazzoni CJ, Höglund J. How genomics can help biodiversity conservation. Trends Genet 2023:S0168-9525(23)00020-3. [PMID: 36801111 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The availability of public genomic resources can greatly assist biodiversity assessment, conservation, and restoration efforts by providing evidence for scientifically informed management decisions. Here we survey the main approaches and applications in biodiversity and conservation genomics, considering practical factors, such as cost, time, prerequisite skills, and current shortcomings of applications. Most approaches perform best in combination with reference genomes from the target species or closely related species. We review case studies to illustrate how reference genomes can facilitate biodiversity research and conservation across the tree of life. We conclude that the time is ripe to view reference genomes as fundamental resources and to integrate their use as a best practice in conservation genomics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Theissinger
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Carlos Fernandes
- CE3C - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE - Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, 1649-013 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Giulio Formenti
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Iliana Bista
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333, CR, Leiden, The Netherlands; Wellcome Sanger Institute, Tree of Life, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Paul R Berg
- NIVA - Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Økernveien, 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway; Centre for Coastal Research, University of Agder, Gimlemoen 25j, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway; Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO BOX 1066 Blinderm, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Christoph Bleidorn
- University of Göttingen, Department of Animal Evolution and Biodiversity, Untere Karspüle, 2, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Angelica Crottini
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 7, 4485-661, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Guido R Gallo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - José A Godoy
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, Calle Americo Vespucio 26, 41092, Sevillle, Spain
| | - Sissel Jentoft
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO BOX 1066 Blinderm, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Joanna Malukiewicz
- Primate Genetics Laborator, German Primate Center, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alice Mouton
- InBios - Conservation Genetics Lab, University of Liege, Chemin de la Vallée 4, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Rebekah A Oomen
- Centre for Coastal Research, University of Agder, Gimlemoen 25j, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway; Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO BOX 1066 Blinderm, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Sadye Paez
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Per J Palsbøll
- Groningen Institute of Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh, 9747, AG, Groningen, The Netherlands; Center for Coastal Studies, 5 Holway Avenue, Provincetown, MA 02657, USA
| | - Christophe Pampoulie
- Marine and Freshwater Research Institute, Fornubúðir, 5,220, Hanafjörður, Iceland
| | - María J Ruiz-López
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, Calle Americo Vespucio 26, 41092, Sevillle, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain
| | | | - Hannes Svardal
- Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Constantina Theofanopoulou
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA; Hunter College, City University of New York, NY, USA
| | - Jan de Vries
- University of Goettingen, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Department of Applied Bioinformatics, Goettingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Campus Institute Data Science (CIDAS), Goldschmidtstr. 1, 37077, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Ann-Marie Waldvogel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Zülpicherstrasse 47b, D-50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Guojie Zhang
- Evolutionary & Organismal Biology Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Villum Center for Biodiversity Genomics, Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Erich D Jarvis
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Miklós Bálint
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Claudio Ciofi
- University of Florence, Department of Biology, Via Madonna del Piano 6, Sesto Fiorentino, (FI) 50019, Italy
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- University of Lausanne, Department of Ecology and Evolution, Le Biophore, UNIL-Sorge, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Camila J Mazzoni
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany; Berlin Center for Genomics in Biodiversity Research (BeGenDiv), Koenigin-Luise-Str 6-8, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jacob Höglund
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, 75246, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hodgson RJ, Liddicoat C, Cando‐Dumancela C, Blyth C, Watson CD, Breed MF. Local and non‐local soil microbiota impede germination of the endangered
Acacia whibleyana. AUSTRAL ECOL 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Riley J. Hodgson
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park South Australia Australia
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park South Australia Australia
- School of Public Health University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | | | - Colette Blyth
- School of Biological Sciences University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Carl D. Watson
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park South Australia Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park South Australia Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mohr JJ, Cummins TM, Floyd TM, Metcalf EC, Callaway RM, Nelson CR. Age, experience, social goals, and engagement with research scientists may promote innovation in ecological restoration. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0274153. [PMID: 37098011 PMCID: PMC10128931 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovation in ecological restoration is necessary to achieve the ambitious targets established in United Nations conventions and other global restoration initiatives. Innovation is also crucial for navigating uncertainties in repairing and restoring ecosystems, and thus practitioners often develop innovations at project design and implementation stages. However, innovation in ecological restoration can be hindered by many factors (e.g., time and budget constraints, and project complexity). Theory and research on innovation has been formally applied in many fields, yet explicit study of innovation in ecological restoration remains nascent. To assess the use of innovation in restoration projects, including its drivers and inhibitors, we conducted a social survey of restoration practitioners in the United States. Specifically, we assessed relationships between project-based innovation and traits of the individual practitioner (including, for example, age, gender, experience); company (including, for example, company size and company's inclusion of social goals); project (including, for example, complexity and uncertainty); and project outcomes (such as completing the project on time/on budget and personal satisfaction with the work). We found positive relationships between project-based innovation and practitioner traits (age, gender, experience, engagement with research scientists), one company trait (company's inclusion of social goals in their portfolio), and project traits (project complexity and length). In contrast, two practitioner traits, risk aversion and the use of industry-specific information, were negatively related to project-based innovation. Satisfaction with project outcomes was positively correlated with project-based innovation. Collectively, the results provide insights into the drivers and inhibitors of innovation in restoration and suggest opportunities for research and application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jakki J Mohr
- College of Business and Institute on Ecosystems, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Tina M Cummins
- W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Theresa M Floyd
- College of Business, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Covelli Metcalf
- W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Ragan M Callaway
- Division of Biological Sciences and Institute on Ecosystems, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Cara R Nelson
- Department of Ecosystem and Conservation Sciences, W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Evaluation of the Ecological Environment Affected by Cry1Ah1 in Poplar. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12111830. [DOI: 10.3390/life12111830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Populus is a genus of globally significant plantation trees used widely in industrial and agricultural production. Poplars are easily damaged by Micromelalopha troglodyta and Hyphantria cunea, resulting in decreasing quality. Bt toxin-encoded by the Cry gene has been widely adopted in poplar breeding because of its strong insect resistance. There is still no comprehensive and sufficient information about the effects of Cry1Ah1-modified (CM) poplars on the ecological environment. Here, we sampled the rhizosphere soils of field-grown CM and non-transgenic (NT) poplars and applied 16S rRNA and internal transcribed spacer amplicon Illumina MiSeq sequencing to determine the bacterial community associated with the CM and NT poplars. Based on the high-throughput sequencing of samples, we found that the predominant taxa included Proteobacteria (about 40% of the total bacteria), Acidobacteria (about 20% of the total bacteria), and Actinobacteria (about 20% of the total bacteria) collected from the natural rhizosphere of NT and CM poplars. In addition, studies on the microbial diversity of poplar showed that Cry1Ah1 expression has no significant influence on rhizosphere soil alkaline nitrogen, but significantly affects soil phosphorus, soil microbial biomass nitrogen, and carbon. The results exhibited a similar bacterial community structure between CM varieties affected by the expression of Cry1Ah1 and non-transgenic poplars. In addition, Cry1Ah1 expression revealed no significant influence on the composition of rhizosphere microbiomes. These results broadly reflect the effect of the Bt toxin-encoded by Cry1Ah1 on the ecology and environment and provide a clear path for researchers to continue research in this field in the future.
Collapse
|
22
|
Isabwe A, Yao H, Zhang S, Jiang Y, Breed MF, Sun X. Spatial assortment of soil organisms supports the size-plasticity hypothesis. ISME COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:102. [PMID: 37938741 PMCID: PMC9723746 DOI: 10.1038/s43705-022-00185-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
The size-plasticity hypothesis posits that larger size organisms are less plastic in their metabolic rates and, therefore, are more strongly environmental-filtered than smaller organisms. Many studies have supported this hypothesis by evaluating the relative roles of environmental filtration and dispersal for different taxonomic groups of soil organisms. Most observations are made at large spatial scales, which are assumed to have a wide array of varying habitats. However, since urbanization causes habitat fragmentation at smaller regional scales, testing the size-plasticity hypothesis at this scale would help better understand the spatial assortment of urban soil organisms which, in turn, would help to develop improved management and conservation strategies for urban soil health. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding on five groups of soil biota (bacteria, fungi, protists, nematodes, and invertebrates) to assess the relative importance of dispersal and environmental filters to examine the size-plasticity hypothesis at this spatial scale in an urban environment. We observed strong distance-decay of community similarities associated with higher levels of stochastic changes in bacteria, nematode, and protist communities but not fungal or invertebrate communities. Bacterial communities occupied the widest niche followed by protists and nematodes, potentially because of their higher dispersal abilities compared to the larger soil organisms. Null deviation of communities varied with taxonomic groups where bacteria and nematodes were mainly driven by homogenizing dispersal, protists and fungi by drift, and soil invertebrates by environmental selection. We further identified a small percentage of locally-adapted taxa (2.1%) that could be focal taxa for conservation and restoration efforts by, for example, restoring their habitats and enhancing their regional connectivity. These results support the size-plasticity hypothesis at the relatively unexplored regional scale in an urbanization context, and provide new information for improving urban soil health and sustainable city models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alain Isabwe
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, 315830, China
| | - Haifeng Yao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Key Laboratory of Mollisols Agroecology, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
| | - Shixiu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mollisols Agroecology, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
| | - Yuji Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, 5042, Australia
| | - Xin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China.
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, 315830, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bosse M, van Loon S. Challenges in quantifying genome erosion for conservation. Front Genet 2022; 13:960958. [PMID: 36226192 PMCID: PMC9549127 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.960958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Massive defaunation and high extinction rates have become characteristic of the Anthropocene. Genetic effects of population decline can lead populations into an extinction vortex, where declining populations show lower genetic fitness, in turn leading to lower populations still. The lower genetic fitness in a declining population due to a shrinking gene pool is known as genetic erosion. Three different types of genetic erosion are highlighted in this review: overall homozygosity, genetic load and runs of homozygosity (ROH), which are indicative of inbreeding. The ability to quantify genetic erosion could be a very helpful tool for conservationists, as it can provide them with an objective, quantifiable measure to use in the assessment of species at risk of extinction. The link between conservation status and genetic erosion should become more apparent. Currently, no clear correlation can be observed between the current conservation status and genetic erosion. However, the high quantities of genetic erosion in wild populations, especially in those species dealing with habitat fragmentation and habitat decline, may be early signs of deteriorating populations. Whole genome sequencing data is the way forward to quantify genetic erosion. Extra screening steps for genetic load and hybridization can be included, since they could potentially have great impact on population fitness. This way, the information yielded from genetic sequence data can provide conservationists with an objective genetic method in the assessment of species at risk of extinction. However, the great complexity of genome erosion quantification asks for consensus and bridging science and its applications, which remains challenging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirte Bosse
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Section Ecology and Evolution, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Animal Breeding and Genomics, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Mirte Bosse,
| | - Sam van Loon
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Section Ecology and Evolution, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brooks E, Slender AL, Cu S, Breed MF, Stangoulis JCR. A range-wide analysis of population structure and genomic variation within the critically endangered spiny daisy (Acanthocladium dockeri). CONSERV GENET 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-022-01468-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractUnderstanding population structure and genetic diversity is important for designing effective conservation strategies. As a critically endangered shrub, the six remaining extant populations of spiny daisy (Acanthocladium dockeri) are restricted to country roadsides in the mid-north of South Australia, where the species faces many ongoing abiotic and biotic threats to survival. Currently the spiny daisy is managed by selecting individuals from the extant populations and translocating them to establish insurance populations. However, there is little information available on the genetic differentiation between populations and diversity within source populations, which are essential components of planning translocations. To help fill this knowledge gap, we analysed population structure within and among all six of its known wild populations using 7,742 SNPs generated by a genotyping-by-sequencing approach. Results indicated that each population was strongly differentiated, had low levels of genetic diversity, and there was no evidence of inter-population gene flow. Individuals within each population were generally closely related, however, the Melrose population consisted entirely of clones. Our results suggest genetic rescue should be applied to wild spiny daisy populations to increase genetic diversity that will subsequently lead to greater intra-population fitness and adaptability. As a starting point, we suggest focussing on improving seed viability via inter-population crosses such as through hand pollination experiments to experimentally assess their sexual compatibility with the hope of increasing spiny daisy sexual reproduction and long-term reproductive fitness.
Collapse
|
25
|
Mohr JJ, Harrison PA, Stanhope J, Breed MF. Is the genomics 'cart' before the restoration ecology 'horse'? Insights from qualitative interviews and trends from the literature. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210381. [PMID: 35757881 PMCID: PMC9234818 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Harnessing new technologies is vital to achieve global imperatives to restore degraded ecosystems. We explored the potential of genomics as one such tool. We aimed to understand barriers hindering the uptake of genomics, and how to overcome them, via exploratory interviews with leading scholars in both restoration and its sister discipline of conservation-a discipline that has successfully leveraged genomics. We also conducted an examination of research trends to explore some insights that emerged from the interviews, including publication trends that have used genomics to address restoration and conservation questions. Our qualitative findings revealed varied perspectives on harnessing genomics. For example, scholars in restoration without genomics experience felt genomics was over-hyped. Scholars with genomics experience emphatically emphasized the need to proceed cautiously in using genomics in restoration. Both genomics-experienced and less-experienced scholars called for case studies to demonstrate the benefits of genomics in restoration. These qualitative data contrasted with our examination of research trends, which revealed 70 restoration genomics studies, particularly studies using environmental DNA as a monitoring tool. We provide a roadmap to facilitate the uptake of genomics into restoration, to help the restoration sector meet the monumental task of restoring huge areas to biodiverse and functional ecosystems. This article is part of the theme issue 'Ecological complexity and the biosphere: the next 30 years'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jakki J. Mohr
- College of Business, Institute on Ecosystems, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Peter A. Harrison
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Jessica Stanhope
- School of Allied Health Science and Practice, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Solé R, Levin S. Ecological complexity and the biosphere: the next 30 years. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210376. [PMID: 35757877 PMCID: PMC9234814 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Global warming, habitat loss and overexploitation of limited resources are leading to alarming biodiversity declines. Ecosystems are complex adaptive systems that display multiple alternative states and can shift from one to another in abrupt ways. Some of these tipping points have been identified and predicted by mathematical and computational models. Moreover, multiple scales are involved and potential mitigation or intervention scenarios are tied to particular levels of complexity, from cells to human–environment coupled systems. In dealing with a biosphere where humans are part of a complex, endangered ecological network, novel theoretical and engineering approaches need to be considered. At the centre of most research efforts is biodiversity, which is essential to maintain community resilience and ecosystem services. What can be done to mitigate, counterbalance or prevent tipping points? Using a 30-year window, we explore recent approaches to sense, preserve and restore ecosystem resilience as well as a number of proposed interventions (from afforestation to bioengineering) directed to mitigate or reverse ecosystem collapse. The year 2050 is taken as a representative future horizon that combines a time scale where deep ecological changes will occur and proposed solutions might be effective. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Ecological complexity and the biosphere: the next 30 years’.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricard Solé
- ICREA-Complex Systems Lab, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Dr Aiguader 80, Barcelona 08003, Spain.,Institut de Biologia Evolutiva, CSIC-UPF, Pg Maritim de la Barceloneta 37, Barcelona 08003, Spain.,Santa Fe Institute, 1399 Hyde Park Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
| | - Simon Levin
- Santa Fe Institute, 1399 Hyde Park Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Jones TA, Monaco TA, Larson SR, Hamerlynck EP, Crain JL. Using Genomic Selection to Develop Performance-Based Restoration Plant Materials. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158275. [PMID: 35955409 PMCID: PMC9368130 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective native plant materials are critical to restoring the structure and function of extensively modified ecosystems, such as the sagebrush steppe of North America’s Intermountain West. The reestablishment of native bunchgrasses, e.g., bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata [Pursh] À. Löve), is the first step for recovery from invasive species and frequent wildfire and towards greater ecosystem resiliency. Effective native plant material exhibits functional traits that confer ecological fitness, phenotypic plasticity that enables adaptation to the local environment, and genetic variation that facilitates rapid evolution to local conditions, i.e., local adaptation. Here we illustrate a multi-disciplinary approach based on genomic selection to develop plant materials that address environmental issues that constrain local populations in altered ecosystems. Based on DNA sequence, genomic selection allows rapid screening of large numbers of seedlings, even for traits expressed only in more mature plants. Plants are genotyped and phenotyped in a training population to develop a genome model for the desired phenotype. Populations with modified phenotypes can be used to identify plant syndromes and test basic hypotheses regarding relationships of traits to adaptation and to one another. The effectiveness of genomic selection in crop and livestock breeding suggests this approach has tremendous potential for improving restoration outcomes for species such as bluebunch wheatgrass.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Jones
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Forage & Range Research Laboratory, 696 North 1100 East, Logan, UT 84322, USA; (T.A.M.); (S.R.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Thomas A. Monaco
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Forage & Range Research Laboratory, 696 North 1100 East, Logan, UT 84322, USA; (T.A.M.); (S.R.L.)
| | - Steven R. Larson
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Forage & Range Research Laboratory, 696 North 1100 East, Logan, UT 84322, USA; (T.A.M.); (S.R.L.)
| | - Erik P. Hamerlynck
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Range & Meadow Forage Management Research Laboratory, 67826-A Highway 205, Burns, OR 97720, USA;
| | - Jared L. Crain
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, 1712 Claflin Road, 4024 Throckmorton PSC, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Robinson JM, Harrison PA, Mavoa S, Breed MF. Existing and emerging uses of drones in restoration ecology. Methods Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.13912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jake M. Robinson
- Department of Landscape Architecture The University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA Australia
| | - Peter A. Harrison
- ARC Training Centre for Forest Value and School of Natural Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Australia
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health University of Melbourne Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Robinson CV, Porter TM, McGee KM, McCusker M, Wright MTG, Hajibabaei M. Multi-marker DNA metabarcoding detects suites of environmental gradients from an urban harbour. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10556. [PMID: 35732669 PMCID: PMC9217803 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13262-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing need for biodiversity monitoring, especially in places where potential anthropogenic disturbance may significantly impact ecosystem health. We employed a combination of traditional morphological and bulk macroinvertebrate metabarcoding analyses to benthic samples collected from Toronto Harbour (Ontario, Canada) to compare taxonomic and functional diversity of macroinvertebrates and their responses to environmental gradients. At the species rank, sites assessed using COI metabarcoding showed more variation than sites assessed using morphological methods. Depending on the assessment method, we detected gradients in magnesium (morphological taxa), ammonia (morphological taxa, COI sequence variants), pH (18S sequence variants) as well as gradients in contaminants such as metals (COI & 18S sequence variants) and organochlorines (COI sequence variants). Observed responses to contaminants such as aromatic hydrocarbons and metals align with known patchy distributions in harbour sediments. We determined that the morphological approach may limit the detection of macroinvertebrate responses to lake environmental conditions due to the effort needed to obtain fine level taxonomic assignments necessary to investigate responses. DNA metabarcoding, however, need not be limited to macroinvertebrates, can be automated, and taxonomic assignments are associated with a certain level of accuracy from sequence variants to named taxonomic groups. The capacity to detect change using a scalable approach such as metabarcoding is critical for addressing challenges associated with biodiversity monitoring and ecological investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe V Robinson
- Centre for Biodiversity Genomics and Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
- Whales Initiative, Ocean Wise Conservation Association, Victoria, BC, V8V 4Z9, Canada
| | - Teresita M Porter
- Centre for Biodiversity Genomics and Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Katie M McGee
- Centre for Biodiversity Genomics and Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Megan McCusker
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, ON, L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Michael T G Wright
- Centre for Biodiversity Genomics and Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Mehrdad Hajibabaei
- Centre for Biodiversity Genomics and Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
McCartin LJ, Vohsen SA, Ambrose SW, Layden M, McFadden CS, Cordes EE, McDermott JM, Herrera S. Temperature Controls eDNA Persistence across Physicochemical Conditions in Seawater. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:8629-8639. [PMID: 35658125 PMCID: PMC9231374 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c01672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) quantification and sequencing are emerging techniques for assessing biodiversity in marine ecosystems. Environmental DNA can be transported by ocean currents and may remain at detectable concentrations far from its source depending on how long it persist. Thus, predicting the persistence time of eDNA is crucial to defining the spatial context of the information derived from it. To investigate the physicochemical controls of eDNA persistence, we performed degradation experiments at temperature, pH, and oxygen conditions relevant to the open ocean and the deep sea. The eDNA degradation process was best explained by a model with two phases with different decay rate constants. During the initial phase, eDNA degraded rapidly, and the rate was independent of physicochemical factors. During the second phase, eDNA degraded slowly, and the rate was strongly controlled by temperature, weakly controlled by pH, and not controlled by dissolved oxygen concentration. We demonstrate that marine eDNA can persist at quantifiable concentrations for over 2 weeks at low temperatures (≤10 °C) but for a week or less at ≥20 °C. The relationship between temperature and eDNA persistence is independent of the source species. We propose a general temperature-dependent model to predict the maximum persistence time of eDNA detectable through single-species eDNA quantification methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke J. McCartin
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015-3027, United States
| | - Samuel A. Vohsen
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015-3027, United States
| | - Susan W. Ambrose
- Department
of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lehigh
University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015-3027, United States
| | - Michael Layden
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015-3027, United States
| | - Catherine S. McFadden
- Department
of Biology, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, California 91711, United States
| | - Erik E. Cordes
- Department
of Biology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122-6008, United States
| | - Jill M. McDermott
- Department
of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lehigh
University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015-3027, United States
| | - Santiago Herrera
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015-3027, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mijangos JL, Gruber B, Berry O, Pacioni C, Georges A.
dartR
v2: an accessible genetic analysis platform for conservation, ecology, and agriculture. Methods Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.13918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jose Luis Mijangos
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology University of Canberra Bruce ACT Australia
| | - Bernd Gruber
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology University of Canberra Bruce ACT Australia
| | - Oliver Berry
- Environomics Future Science Platform, Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Crawley WA Australia
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Heidelberg VIC Australia
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University Murdoch WA Australia
| | - Arthur Georges
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology University of Canberra Bruce ACT Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Richardson BA, Massatti R, Islam‐Faridi N, Johnson S, Kilkenny FF. Assessing population genomic structure and polyploidy: a crucial step for native plant restoration. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rob Massatti
- Southwest Biological Center, US Geological Survey Flagstaff Arizona
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Galanis A, Vardakas P, Reczko M, Harokopos V, Hatzis P, Skoulakis EMC, Pavlopoulos GA, Patalano S. Bee foraging preferences, microbiota and pathogens revealed by direct shotgun metagenomics of honey. Mol Ecol Resour 2022; 22:2506-2523. [PMID: 35593171 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) continue to succumb to human and environmental pressures despite their crucial role in providing essential ecosystem services. Owing to their foraging and honey production activities, honeybees form complex relationships with species across all domains, such as plants, viruses, bacteria and other hive pests, making honey a valuable biomonitoring tool for assessing their ecological niche. Thus, the application of honey shotgun metagenomics (SM) has paved the way for a detailed description of the species honeybees interact with. Nevertheless, SM bioinformatics tools and DNA extraction methods rely on resources not necessarily optimized for honey. In this study, we compared five widely used taxonomic classifiers using simulated species communities commonly found in honey. We found that Kraken 2 with a threshold of 0.5 performs best in assessing species distribution. We also optimized a simple NaOH-based honey DNA extraction methodology (Direct-SM), which profiled species seasonal variability similarly to an established column-based DNA extraction approach (SM). Both approaches produce results consistent with melissopalinology analysis describing the botanical landscape surrounding the apiary. Interestingly, we detected a strong stability of the bacteria constituting the core and noncore gut microbiome across seasons, pointing to the potential utility of honey for noninvasive assessment of bee microbiota. Finally, the Direct-SM approach to detect Varroa correlates well with the biomonitoring of mite infestation observed in hives. These observations suggest that Direct-SM methodology has the potential to comprehensively describe honeybee ecological niches and can be tested as a building block for large-scale studies to assess bee health in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Galanis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece.,Division of Animal and Human Physiology, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Philippos Vardakas
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece.,Department of Apiculture, Institute of Animal Science, Nea Moudania, Greece
| | - Martin Reczko
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Vaggelis Harokopos
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Pantelis Hatzis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Efthimios M C Skoulakis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Georgios A Pavlopoulos
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Solenn Patalano
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Liddicoat C, Krauss SL, Bissett A, Borrett RJ, Ducki LC, Peddle SD, Bullock P, Dobrowolski MP, Grigg A, Tibbett M, Breed MF. Next generation restoration metrics: Using soil eDNA bacterial community data to measure trajectories towards rehabilitation targets. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 310:114748. [PMID: 35192978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In post-mining rehabilitation, successful mine closure planning requires specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART) completion criteria, such as returning ecological communities to match a target level of similarity to reference sites. Soil microbiota are fundamentally linked to the restoration of degraded ecosystems, helping to underpin ecological functions and plant communities. High-throughput sequencing of soil eDNA to characterise these communities offers promise to help monitor and predict ecological progress towards reference states. Here we demonstrate a novel methodology for monitoring and evaluating ecological restoration using three long-term (>25 year) case study post-mining rehabilitation soil eDNA-based bacterial community datasets. Specifically, we developed rehabilitation trajectory assessments based on similarity to reference data from restoration chronosequence datasets. Recognising that numerous alternative options for microbiota data processing have potential to influence these assessments, we comprehensively examined the influence of standard versus compositional data analyses, different ecological distance measures, sequence grouping approaches, eliminating rare taxa, and the potential for excessive spatial autocorrelation to impact on results. Our approach reduces the complexity of information that often overwhelms ecologically-relevant patterns in microbiota studies, and enables prediction of recovery time, with explicit inclusion of uncertainty in assessments. We offer a step change in the development of quantitative microbiota-based SMART metrics for measuring rehabilitation success. Our approach may also have wider applications where restorative processes facilitate the shift of microbiota towards reference states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Siegfried L Krauss
- Kings Park Science, Western Australia Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, Perth, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Ryan J Borrett
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Luisa C Ducki
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Shawn D Peddle
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Mark P Dobrowolski
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Iluka Resources Limited, Perth, Australia; Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Mark Tibbett
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Department of Sustainable Land Management & Soil Research Centre, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Walters SJ, Robinson TP, Byrne M, Nevill P. Seed sourcing in the genomics era: Multispecies provenance delineation for current and future climates. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sheree J. Walters
- ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration, School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Bentley WA 6102 Australia
| | - Todd P. Robinson
- School of Earth and Planetary Sciences Curtin University Bentley WA 6102 Australia
| | - Margaret Byrne
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, Locked Bag 104, Bentley Delivery Centre WA 6983 Australia
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Bentley WA 6102 Australia
| | - Paul Nevill
- ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration, School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Bentley WA 6102 Australia
- Trace and Environmental DNA Laboratory, School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Bentley WA 6102 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Peddle SD, Bissett A, Borrett RJ, Bullock P, Gardner MG, Liddicoat C, Tibbett M, Breed MF, Krauss SL. Soil
DNA
chronosequence analysis shows bacterial community re‐assembly following post‐mining forest rehabilitation. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shawn D. Peddle
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA Australia
| | | | - Ryan J. Borrett
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch WA Australia
| | | | - Michael G. Gardner
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA Australia
- School of Public Health The University of Adelaide Adelaide Australia
| | - Mark Tibbett
- Department of Sustainable Land Management & Soil Research Centre, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development University of Reading Berkshire United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA Australia
| | - Siegfried L. Krauss
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions Perth WA Australia
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Cando‐Dumancela C, Davies T, Hodgson RJ, Liddicoat C, Peddle SD, Watson CD, Breed MF. A practical guide for restoration ecologists to manage microbial contamination risks before laboratory processes during microbiota restoration studies. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tarryn Davies
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
| | - Riley J. Hodgson
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
- School of Public Health The University of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - Shawn D. Peddle
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
| | - Carl D. Watson
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wood G, Steinberg PD, Campbell AH, Vergés A, Coleman MA, Marzinelli EM. Host genetics, phenotype and geography structure the microbiome of a foundational seaweed. Mol Ecol 2022; 31:2189-2206. [PMID: 35104026 PMCID: PMC9540321 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Interactions between hosts and their microbiota are vital to the functioning and resilience of macro-organisms. Critically, for hosts that play foundational roles in communities, understanding what drives host-microbiota interactions is essential for informing ecosystem restoration and conservation. We investigated the relative influence of host traits and the surrounding environment on microbial communities associated with the foundational seaweed Phyllospora comosa. We quantified 16 morphological and functional phenotypic traits, including host genetics (using 354 single nucleotide polymorphisms) and surface-associated microbial communities (using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) from 160 individuals sampled from eight sites spanning Phyllospora's entire latitudinal distribution (1,300 km). Combined, these factors explained 54% of the overall variation in Phyllospora's associated microbial community structure, much of which was related to the local environment (~32%). We found that putative "core" microbial taxa (i.e., present on all Phyllospora individuals sampled) exhibited slightly higher associations with host traits when compared to "variable" taxa (not present on all individuals). We identified several key genetic loci and phenotypic traits in Phyllospora that were strongly related to multiple microbial amplicon sequence variants, including taxa with known associations to seaweed defence, disease and tissue degradation. This information on how host-associated microbial communities vary with host traits and the environment enhances our current understanding of how "holobionts" (hosts plus their microbiota) are structured. Such understanding can be used to inform management strategies of these important and vulnerable habitats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgina Wood
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Centre for Marine Science and InnovationSchool of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Peter D. Steinberg
- Centre for Marine Science and InnovationSchool of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Sydney Institute of Marine ScienceSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences EngineeringNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Alexandra H. Campbell
- USC Seaweed Research GroupUniversity of the Sunshine CoastSunshine CoastQueenslandAustralia
| | - Adriana Vergés
- Centre for Marine Science and InnovationSchool of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Melinda A. Coleman
- Department of Primary IndustriesNational Marine Science CentreCoffs HarbourNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Ezequiel M. Marzinelli
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Sydney Institute of Marine ScienceSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences EngineeringNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Tang L, Liao X, Tembrock LR, Ge S, Wu Z. A chromosome-scale genome and transcriptomic analysis of the endangered tropical tree Vatica mangachapoi (Dipterocarpaceae). DNA Res 2022; 29:6529388. [PMID: 35171284 PMCID: PMC8882376 DOI: 10.1093/dnares/dsac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vatica mangachapoi is a tropical tree species native to Southeast Asia. It has long been valued as a timber species because the wood resists decay, but it is now considered vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and overexploitation. Here, we present the first chromosome-level genome assembly of V. mangachapoi that we created by combining data from PacBio long read sequencing with Hi-C proximity ligation and Illumina short-read sequencing. The assembled genome was 456.21 Mb, containing 11 chromosome and a BUSCO score of 93.4%. From the newly assembled genome, 46,811 protein-coding genes were predicted. Repetitive DNA accounted for 53% of the genome. Phylogenomic and gene family analyses showed that V. mangachapoi diverged from a common ancestor of Gossypium raimondii 70 million years ago. Transcriptome analyses found 227 genes that were differentially expressed in the leaves of plants grown in normal soil relative to plants grown in dry, coastal, sandy soil. For these genes, we identified three significantly enriched with GO terms: responses to organonitrogen compounds, chitin-triggered immunity, and wound response. This genome provides an important comparative benchmark not only for future conservation work on V. mangachapoi but also for phylogenomics work on Dipterocarpaceae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Tang
- Center for Terrestrial Biodiversity of the South China Sea, Hainan University , Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Xuezhu Liao
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen , Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Luke R Tembrock
- Department of Agricultural Biology, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Song Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100093, China
| | - Zhiqiang Wu
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen , Shenzhen 518120, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wambugu PW, Henry R. Supporting in situ conservation of the genetic diversity of crop wild relatives using genomic technologies. Mol Ecol 2022; 31:2207-2222. [PMID: 35170117 PMCID: PMC9303585 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The last decade has witnessed huge technological advances in genomics, particularly in DNA sequencing. Here, we review the actual and potential application of genomics in supporting in situ conservation of crop wild relatives (CWRs). In addition to helping in prioritization of protection of CWR taxa and in situ conservation sites, genome analysis is allowing the identification of novel alleles that need to be prioritized for conservation. Genomics is enabling the identification of potential sources of important adaptive traits that can guide the establishment or enrichment of in situ genetic reserves. Genomic tools also have the potential for developing a robust framework for monitoring and reporting genome‐based indicators of genetic diversity changes associated with factors such as land use or climate change. These tools have been demonstrated to have an important role in managing the conservation of populations, supporting sustainable access and utilization of CWR diversity, enhancing accelerated domestication of new crops and forensic genomics thus preventing misappropriation of genetic resources. Despite this great potential, many policy makers and conservation managers have failed to recognize and appreciate the need to accelerate the application of genomics to support the conservation and management of biodiversity in CWRs to underpin global food security. Funding and inadequate genomic expertise among conservation practitioners also remain major hindrances to the widespread application of genomics in conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peterson W Wambugu
- Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Genetic Resources Research Institute, P.O. Box 30148, 00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Robert Henry
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Plant Success in Nature and Agriculture, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Mangroves form coastal tropical forests in the intertidal zone and are an important component of shoreline protection. In comparison to other tropical forests, mangrove stands are thought to have relatively low genetic diversity with population genetic structure gradually increasing with distance along a coastline. We conducted genetic analyses of mangrove forests across a range of spatial scales; within a 400 m2 parcel comprising 181 Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove) trees, and across four sites ranging from 6-115 km apart in Honduras. In total, we successfully genotyped 269 R. mangle trees, using a panel of 677 SNPs developed with 2b-RAD methodology. Within the 400 m2 parcel, we found two distinct clusters with high levels of genetic differentiation (FST = 0.355), corresponding to trees primarily located on the seaward fringe and trees growing deeper into the forest. In contrast, there was limited genetic differentiation (FST = 0.027-0.105) across the sites at a larger scale, which had been predominantly sampled along the seaward fringe. Within the 400 m2 parcel, the cluster closest to the seaward fringe exhibited low genetic differentiation (FST = 0.014-0.043) with the other Honduran sites, but the cluster further into the forest was highly differentiated from them (FST = 0.326-0.414). These findings contradict the perception that genetic structure within mangroves forests occurs mainly along a coastline and highlights that there is greater genetic structure at fine spatial scales.
Collapse
|
42
|
Lem AJ, Liddicoat C, Bissett A, Cando‐Dumancela C, Gardner MG, Peddle SD, Watson CD, Breed MF. Does revegetation cause soil microbiota recovery? Evidence from revisiting a revegetation chronosequence six years after initial sampling. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alfie J. Lem
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
| | - Craig Liddicoat
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
- School of Public Health The University of Adelaide, SA, 5005 Australia
| | - Andrew Bissett
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere Hobart Tasmania 7001 Australia
| | | | - Michael G. Gardner
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, North Terrace Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Shawn D. Peddle
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
| | - Carl D. Watson
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Feng L, Du FK. Landscape Genomics in Tree Conservation Under a Changing Environment. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:822217. [PMID: 35283901 PMCID: PMC8908315 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.822217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the genetic basis of how species respond to changing environments is essential to the conservation of species. However, the molecular mechanisms of adaptation remain largely unknown for long-lived tree species which always have large population sizes, long generation time, and extensive gene flow. Recent advances in landscape genomics can reveal the signals of adaptive selection linking genetic variations and landscape characteristics and therefore have created novel insights into tree conservation strategies. In this review article, we first summarized the methods of landscape genomics used in tree conservation and elucidated the advantages and disadvantages of these methods. We then highlighted the newly developed method "Risk of Non-adaptedness," which can predict the genetic offset or genomic vulnerability of species via allele frequency change under multiple scenarios of climate change. Finally, we provided prospects concerning how our introduced approaches of landscape genomics can assist policymaking and improve the existing conservation strategies for tree species under the ongoing global changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fang K. Du
- School of Ecology and Nature Conservation, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Fang K. Du,
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Toczydlowski RH, Waller DM. Plastic and quantitative genetic divergence mirror environmental gradients among wild, fragmented populations of Impatiens capensis. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY 2022; 109:99-114. [PMID: 34643270 DOI: 10.1002/ajb2.1782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE Habitat fragmentation generates molecular genetic divergence among isolated populations, but few studies have assessed phenotypic divergence and fitness in populations where the genetic consequences of habitat fragmentation are known. Phenotypic divergence could reflect plasticity, local adaptation, and/or genetic drift. METHODS We examined patterns and potential drivers of phenotypic divergence among 12 populations of jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) that show strong molecular genetic signals of isolation and drift among fragmented habitats. We measured morphological and reproductive traits in both maternal plants within natural populations and their self-fertilized progeny grown together in a common garden. We also quantified environmental divergence between home sites and the common garden. RESULTS Populations with less molecular genetic variation expressed less maternal phenotypic variation. Progeny in the common garden converged in phenotypes relative to their wild mothers but retained among-population differences in morphology, survival, and reproduction. Among-population phenotypic variance was 3-10× greater in home sites than in the common garden for 6 of 7 morphological traits measured. Patterns of phenotypic divergence paralleled environmental gradients in ways suggestive of adaptation. Progeny resembled their mothers less as the environmental distance between their home site and the common garden increased. CONCLUSIONS Despite strong molecular signatures of isolation and drift, phenotypic differences among these Impatiens populations appear to reflect both adaptive quantitative genetic divergence and plasticity. Quantifying the extent of local adaptation and plasticity and how these covary with molecular and phenotypic variation help us predict when populations may lose their adaptive capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H Toczydlowski
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 430 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Donald M Waller
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 430 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Harrison PA. Climate change and the suitability of local and non‐local species for ecosystem restoration. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/emr.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
46
|
Hagerman S, Satterfield T, Nawaz S, St‐Laurent GP, Kozak R, Gregory R. Social comfort zones for transformative conservation decisions in a changing climate. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2021; 35:1932-1943. [PMID: 33993550 PMCID: PMC9487985 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Novel management interventions intended to mitigate the impacts of climate change on biodiversity are increasingly being considered by scientists and practitioners. However, resistance to more transformative interventions remains common across both specialist and lay communities and is generally assumed to be strongly entrenched. We used a decision-pathways survey of the public in Canada and the United States (n = 1490) to test two propositions relating to climate-motivated interventions for conservation: most public groups are uncomfortable with interventionist options for conserving biodiversity and given the strong values basis for preferences regarding biodiversity and natural systems more broadly, people are unlikely to change their minds. Our pathways design tested and retested levels of comfort with interventions for forest ecosystems at three different points in the survey. Comfort was reexamined given different nudges (including new information from trusted experts) and in reference to a particular species (bristlecone pine [Pinus longaeva]). In contrast with expectations of public unease, baseline levels of public comfort with climate interventions in forests was moderately high (46% comfortable) and increased further when respondents were given new information and the opportunity to change their choice after consideration of a particular species. People who were initially comfortable with interventions tended to remain so (79%), whereas 42% of those who were initially uncomfortable and 40% of those who were uncertain shifted to comfortable by the end of the survey. In short and across questions, comfort levels with interventions were high, and where discomfort or uncertainty existed, such positions did not appear to be strongly held. We argue that a new decision logic, one based on anthropogenic responsibility, is beginning to replace a default reluctance to intervene with nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Hagerman
- Faculty of ForestryUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Terre Satterfield
- Faculty of ForestryUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Sara Nawaz
- Faculty of ForestryUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | | | - Robert Kozak
- Faculty of ForestryUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Robin Gregory
- Faculty of ForestryUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Faske TM, Agneray AC, Jahner JP, Sheta LM, Leger EA, Parchman TL. Genomic and common garden approaches yield complementary results for quantifying environmental drivers of local adaptation in rubber rabbitbrush, a foundational Great Basin shrub. Evol Appl 2021; 14:2881-2900. [PMID: 34950235 PMCID: PMC8674890 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The spatial structure of genomic and phenotypic variation across populations reflects historical and demographic processes as well as evolution via natural selection. Characterizing such variation can provide an important perspective for understanding the evolutionary consequences of changing climate and for guiding ecological restoration. While evidence for local adaptation has been traditionally evaluated using phenotypic data, modern methods for generating and analyzing landscape genomic data can directly quantify local adaptation by associating allelic variation with environmental variation. Here, we analyze both genomic and phenotypic variation of rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa), a foundational shrub species of western North America. To quantify landscape genomic structure and provide perspective on patterns of local adaptation, we generated reduced representation sequencing data for 17 wild populations (222 individuals; 38,615 loci) spanning a range of environmental conditions. Population genetic analyses illustrated pronounced landscape genomic structure jointly shaped by geography and environment. Genetic-environment association (GEA) analyses using both redundancy analysis (RDA) and a machine-learning approach (Gradient Forest) indicated environmental variables (precipitation seasonality, slope, aspect, elevation, and annual precipitation) influenced spatial genomic structure and were correlated with allele frequency shifts indicative of local adaptation at a consistent set of genomic regions. We compared our GEA-based inference of local adaptation with phenotypic data collected by growing seeds from each population in a greenhouse common garden. Population differentiation in seed weight, emergence, and seedling traits was associated with environmental variables (e.g., precipitation seasonality) that were also implicated in GEA analyses, suggesting complementary conclusions about the drivers of local adaptation across different methods and data sources. Our results provide a baseline understanding of spatial genomic structure for E. nauseosa across the western Great Basin and illustrate the utility of GEA analyses for detecting the environmental causes and genetic signatures of local adaptation in a widely distributed plant species of restoration significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trevor M. Faske
- Department of BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
- Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology ProgramUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Alison C. Agneray
- Department of BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
- Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology ProgramUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | | | - Lana M. Sheta
- Department of BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Leger
- Department of BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
- Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology ProgramUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Thomas L. Parchman
- Department of BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
- Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology ProgramUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Aavik T, Träger S, Zobel M, Honnay O, Van Geel M, Bueno CG, Koorem K. The joint effect of host plant genetic diversity and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities on restoration success. Funct Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tsipe Aavik
- Department of Botany Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
| | - Sabrina Träger
- Department of Botany Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
- Institute of Biology/Geobotany and Botanical Garden Martin‐Luther‐University Halle‐Wittenberg Halle (Saale) Germany
| | - Martin Zobel
- Department of Botany Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
| | - Olivier Honnay
- Plant Conservation and Population Biology Biology Department University of Leuven Heverlee Belgium
| | - Maarten Van Geel
- Plant Conservation and Population Biology Biology Department University of Leuven Heverlee Belgium
| | - C. Guillermo Bueno
- Department of Botany Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
| | - Kadri Koorem
- Department of Botany Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Westergaard KB, Kyrkjeeide MO, Brandrud MK. Using genomics to guide seed-sourcing at the right taxonomical level for ecological restoration projects: The complex case of Carex bigelowii s.lat. in Norway. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:17117-17131. [PMID: 34938497 PMCID: PMC8668773 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a growing demand for ecological restoration using suitable seeds following international standards or national legal demands for local seed-sourcing. However, before selecting the appropriate geographic origin of seeds, it is vital to explore taxonomic complexity related to the focal taxa. We used ddRAD-seq to screen genomic diversity within Carex bigelowii s.lat. focussing on Norway. This species complex is considered a candidate for seeding, but presents considerable morphological, ecological, and genetic variation. The genetic structure of 132 individuals of C. bigelowii s.lat., including Carex nigra as an outgroup, was explored using ordinations, clustering analyses, and a genetic barrier algorithm. Two highly divergent clusters were evident, supporting the recognition of two taxonomic units "C. dacica" and C. bigelowii "subsp. bigelowii". Previously defined seed-sourcing regions for C. bigelowii s.lat. did not consider the known taxonomic complexity, and therefore interpreted the overall genetic structure as seed-sourcing regions, not taxa. We estimated genetic neighborhood sizes within each taxon to be 100-150 km and 300 km, respectively, indicating species-specific delimitations of local seed-sourcing regions. Frequent hybrids, local genetic distinctiveness, and suggested ecotypes add complexity to the discussed seed-sourcing regions. Our results show how genomic screening of diversity and structure in a species complex can alleviate the taxonomic impediment, inform practical questions, and legal requirements related to seed-sourcing, and together with traditional taxonomic work provide necessary information for a sound management of biodiversity.
Collapse
|
50
|
New developments in the field of genomic technologies and their relevance to conservation management. CONSERV GENET 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-021-01415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRecent technological advances in the field of genomics offer conservation managers and practitioners new tools to explore for conservation applications. Many of these tools are well developed and used by other life science fields, while others are still in development. Considering these technological possibilities, choosing the right tool(s) from the toolbox is crucial and can pose a challenging task. With this in mind, we strive to inspire, inform and illuminate managers and practitioners on how conservation efforts can benefit from the current genomic and biotechnological revolution. With inspirational case studies we show how new technologies can help resolve some of the main conservation challenges, while also informing how implementable the different technologies are. We here focus specifically on small population management, highlight the potential for genetic rescue, and discuss the opportunities in the field of gene editing to help with adaptation to changing environments. In addition, we delineate potential applications of gene drives for controlling invasive species. We illuminate that the genomic toolbox offers added benefit to conservation efforts, but also comes with limitations for the use of these novel emerging techniques.
Collapse
|