Genetics and conservation biology

Richard Frankham*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    283 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Conservation genetics encompasses genetic management of small populations, resolution of taxonomic uncertainties and management units, and the use of molecular genetic analyses in forensics and to understanding species' biology. The role of genetic factors in extinctions of wild populations has been controversial, but evidence now shows that they make important contributions to extinction risk. Inbreeding has been shown to cause extinctions of wild populations, computer projections indicate that inbreeding depression has important effects on extinction risk, and most threatened species show signs of genetic deterioration. Inappropriate management is likely to result if genetic factors are ignored in threatened species management.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)S22–S29
    Number of pages8
    JournalComptes Rendus - Biologies
    Volume326
    Issue numberSUPPL. 1
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Aug 2003

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