International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 154-165 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 154 Research Report Open Access Evolutionary Conservation Genomics of Carnivores: Insights from Felids QinengSi BIotechnology Reseach Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: qineng.si@cuixi.org International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.3 doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0015 Received: 30 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 11 May, 2024 Published: 31 May, 2024 Copyright © 2024 Si, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Si Q.N., 2024, Evolutionary conservation genomics of carnivores: insights from felids, International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 14(3): 154-165 (doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0015) Abstract Conservation genomics is crucial for understanding the evolutionary history of species and maintaining their genetic diversity. As top predators, felids play a key role in maintaining ecological balance, making their conservation essential. This study aims to explore the genomic landscape of felids to guide and enhance conservation strategies. We investigated the evolutionary history of felids, tracing their origins, diversification, and phylogenetic relationships, highlighting major evolutionary events. Using advanced sequencing technologies and genomic data analysis methods, we studied genetic variation within and among felid species. Through a detailed case study of the tiger (Panthera tigris), we gained insights into its genetic diversity, population structure, and conservation efforts, providing valuable experience for other felid species. We explored adaptive genomic traits related to habitat, disease resistance, and behavior. We assessed threats to felid genomic diversity, including habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. We discussed conservation strategies based on genomic data, including breeding programs, habitat restoration, and policy recommendations. This study emphasizes the critical role of genomics in felid conservation. By integrating genomic research with ecological data, robust conservation strategies can be developed to maintain felid biodiversity. Future directions include leveraging emerging technologies and setting long-term conservation goals to ensure the survival of these majestic predators. Keywords Conservation genomics; Felids; Genetic diversity; Panthera tigris; Adaptive traits 1 Introduction Conservation genomics is an emerging field that leverages genomic data to address conservation challenges (Allendorf F., 2017). By analyzing the genetic material of organisms, researchers can gain insights into genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary history, which are critical for developing effective conservation strategies. Advances in sequencing technologies have enabled the generation of high-quality genomic data for a wide range of species, including those that are not traditional model organisms (Johnson and Koepfli, 2014). These genomic tools have revolutionized our understanding of biodiversity and the genetic factors that contribute to species survival and adaptation (Samaha et al., 2021). Felids, or members of the cat family, are of particular interest in conservation genomics due to their ecological roles as apex predators and their vulnerability to environmental changes (Primmer C., 2009). Felids such as tigers, lions, leopards, and cheetahs have experienced significant population declines and habitat fragmentation, making them prime candidates for genomic studies aimed at conservation (Kim et al., 2016). The genetic diversity within felid populations is crucial for their adaptability and long-term survival. Studies have shown that felids often exhibit low genetic diversity, which can increase their susceptibility to diseases and reduce their ability to adapt to changing environments (Azizan and Paradis, 2021). Understanding the genetic makeup of felids can help identify populations at risk and inform conservation efforts to maintain or enhance genetic diversity (Smith et al., 2017). This study conducts a systematic review of the current state of conservation genomics in felids, synthesizing findings from recent genomic studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the genetic factors influencing felid conservation; explores the genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary adaptations of various felid species. By integrating data from multiple studies, this study hopes to identify common patterns and unique challenges faced by different felid species and aims to highlight the potential of genomic tools in developing effective conservation strategies for felids and emphasize the importance of preserving their genetic diversity for future generations.
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