Applying genomics in assisted migration under climate change: Framework, empirical applications, and case studies

Area of Science:

• Conservation Biology
• Genomics
• Climate Change Ecology

Background:

• Global climate change threatens species' adaptive capacity.
• Assisted migration (AM) is a conservation strategy involving managed movement of populations.
• Genomic techniques offer enhanced tools for AM beyond traditional genetic methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a framework for genomics-guided assisted migration decision-making.
• To summarize genomic approaches applicable to AM.
• To review the current incorporation of genomics in AM across taxa.

Main Methods:

• Literature search for studies integrating genomics and AM.
• Analysis of empirical studies across plants, terrestrial animals, and aquatic animals.
• Case studies illustrating genomics application in AM for non-model species.

Main Results:

• Identified 50 empirical studies incorporating genomics in AM, with 42 in plants.
• Demonstrated limited application of genomic methods in AM for non-plant organisms.
• Highlighted the potential of genomics to address climate change impacts on biodiversity.

Conclusions:

• Genomics can significantly improve the adaptive capacity and persistence of species facing climate change.
• A collaborative framework is needed for effective genomics-guided AM.
• Increased application of genomic tools in AM is expected with technological advancements.