Applications of molecular markers in conserving endangered species

Abstract

Molecular markers have been widely applied in the conservation of endangered species for revealing their population genetic and evolutionary history, providing essential information for making conservation strategies and conducting restoration practices. Here, we introduced the applications of molecular markers at different stages of conservation efforts: (1) Molecular markers can be used to elevate the precision of identifying conservation units such as excluding the influence of cryptic species and hybridization. (2) Phylogenetic relationships are useful for distinguishing conservation priorities for biodiversity hotspots and discerning species and populations. (3) Molecular markers measure genetic differentiation among founders in ex situ conservation programs for preserving genetic diversity and avoiding inbreeding depression. (4) Dynamic monitoring and assessment of conservation activities can be achieved with molecular markers. Finally, we discuss the prospects of applying molecular markers for improving conservation strategies considering global change, including long-term monitoring of genetic dynamics, the use of conservation genetics in conservation management, and the development conservation genomics.