Evolutionary dynamics of genomic erosion and its application in biodiversity conservation

Reducing biodiversity loss is one of the most pressing societal challenges of our time. Population decline has put many species on the path of collapse and extinction. Reducing or reversing this decline is not enough to tackle the associated hidden evolutionary costs, most notably genomic erosion which compromises the long-term viability and resilience of species. ERODE will employ state-of-the-art approaches – (paleo)genomics, quantitative genomics, and evolutionary modelling – to assess the dynamics of genomic erosion on neutral, beneficial, and deleterious variation and understand its effects on organismal fitness, population viability, and extinction risk. I will perform one of the most comprehensive genome-fitness studies to date by examining the fitness effects of genomic erosion over time in 6,530 individuals of three iconic endangered bird species for which I have access to over 30 years of genetic samples and fitness data. Together with zooarchaeological and museum-preserved samples, I will draw a dynamic timeline of genomic erosion in response to population decline. Next, I will develop a modelling framework parametrized and validated with empirical data to predict the consequences of genomic erosion. I will use this framework to understand the efficacy of in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies in collaboration with The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). The computer model will incorporate genomics into the Green Status of Species to evaluate species recovery and conservation impact, in collaboration with members of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). ERODE will produce one of the largest genomic datasets for endangered species in the world and a robust modelling framework for conservation scientists and practitioners. The outputs will be disseminated in academic journals but also over a series of workshops, instruction videos and other outreach activities, which will support their practical application.