The principles of population monitoring for conservation genetics

Abstract

Looks at the commercial utilization of living resources whilst ignoring the genetic structure of individual species, leading to reductions in biodiversity. Genetic processes in intact (ie non-exploited) metapopulations is dealt with initially, with reference to Littorina squalida and Cepaea nemoralis. Next, genetic processes in natural metapopulations evolving under anthropogenic pressure are reviewed, with reference to Oncorhynchus nerka and O. gorbuscha. To conclude, genetic processes in agricultural populations are looked at. Anthropogenic influence leads to the redistribution of the intra- and interpopulation components of genetic diversity. -S.R.Harris