A Primer of Conservation Genetics

This page intentionally left blank A Primer of Conservation Genetics The biological diversity of our planet is rapidly being depleted due to di-rect and indirect consequences of human activities. As the size of animal and plant populations decreases, loss of genetic diversity reduces their ability to adapt to changes in the environment, with inbreeding depres-sion an inevitable consequence for many species. This concise, entry-level text provides an introduction to the role of genetics in conservation and presents the essentials of the discipline. Topics covered include: loss of genetic diversity in small populations inbreeding and loss of fitness resolution of taxonomic uncertainties genetic management of threatened species contributions of molecular genetics to conservation The authors assume only a basic knowledge of Mendelian genetics and simple statistics, making the book accessible to those with a limited back-ground in these areas. Connections between conservation genetics and the wider field of conservation biology are interwoven throughout the book. The text is presented in an easy-to-follow format, with main points and terms clearly highlighted. Worked examples are provided throughout to help illustrate key equations. A glossary and suggestions for further reading provide additional support for the reader and many beautiful pen-and-ink portraits of endangered species help bring the material to life. Written for short, introductory-level courses in genetics, conservation genetics and conservation biology, this book will also be suitable for prac-tising conservation biologists, zoo biologists and wildlife managers need-ing a brief, accessible account of the significance of genetics to conserva-tion. dick frankham was employed in the Department of Biological Sci-ences at Macquarie University, Sydney for 31 years and was Hrdy Visiting Professor at Harvard University for spring semester 2004. He holds hon-orary professorial appointments at Macquarie University, James Cook University and the Australian Museum. jon ballou is Head of the Department of Conservation Biology at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoological Park. david briscoe is Associate Professor at the Key Centre for Biodiversity and Bioresources, Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie Univer-sity, Sydney. A Primer of Conservation Genetics Richard Frankham Macquarie University, Sydney Jonathan D. Ballou Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC David A. Briscoe Macquarie University, Sydney Line drawings by Karina H. McInnes Melbourne ... - tailieumienphi.vn