Genomic data is missing for many highly invasive species, restricting our preparedness for escalating incursion rates

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Genomics
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Biological invasions pose significant threats to biodiversity, human health, and economies.
• Population genomics provides advanced tools for understanding invasion success compared to traditional genetic methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the availability and utilization of population genomic resources for invasive species research.
• To identify gaps in genomic data for high-priority invasive species.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) "100 Worst Invasive Alien Species" list.
• Review of existing population genetic and genomic studies for these species.
• Assessment of reference genome availability for listed species.

Main Results:

• 82% of listed invasive species have some population genetic data, but only 32% use population genomics.
• 55% of these species lack a reference genome, limiting genomic research.
• Invasion genomics is an emerging field with significant potential but is still in its early stages.

Conclusions:

• Despite the growing importance of invasion genomics, critical genomic resources like reference genomes are lacking for many invasive species.
• Further research utilizing population genomic data is essential for effective detection and management of biological invasions.
• There is a need to prioritize the development of genomic resources for invasive species research.