Putting Structural Variants Into Practice: The Role of Chromosomal Inversions in the Management of Marine...

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Evolutionary Genetics
• Conservation Science

Background:

• Marine ecosystems face escalating threats from climate change, overfishing, and invasive species.
• Climate change impacts ocean health through heatwaves, acidification, and species range shifts, complicating management.
• Species' adaptive capacity is vital for ocean persistence, necessitating genetic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of chromosomal inversions in marine species adaptation.
• To assess the benefits and risks of genetic interventions, focusing on adaptive variation.
• To provide a framework for incorporating inversion knowledge into conservation management.

Main Methods:

• Summarizing evolutionary factors influencing adaptive and deleterious variation in inversions.
• Reviewing known inversions in marine taxa.
• Developing a predictive framework for management scenarios.

Main Results:

• Large structural variants like chromosomal inversions significantly influence local adaptation by linking adaptive genes.
• Inversions can enhance adaptive capacity but may also harbor deleterious mutations, risking inbreeding depression.
• Considering the dual role of inversions is essential for effective genetic management.

Conclusions:

• Effective conservation requires understanding the complex role of inversions in marine populations.
• Practical methods are needed to integrate evolutionary theory on inversions into conservation practices.
• Managing genetic diversity, including inversions, is critical for ensuring the long-term persistence of marine species.