Importance of genetics in conservation of biodiversity

Abstract

Genetic diversity is the centre pillar for species and ecosystem diversities and the main goal of conservation
genetics is to apply the knowledge of genetics to reduce the risk of extinction. Unfortunately, it has not received its
deserved place in the biodiversity conservation efforts. This review is aimed at highlighting the need for the
application of genetics in the conservation of natural resources and as well to assess the successes recorded so far
while also identifying some challenges of conservation genetics. Non-invasive DNA sampling have been used to
trace the origin of seized ivory tusk, detect hybridisation, evaluate social structures in organisms, estimate population size, and identify predators of kills. Poor adaptation of captive-bred endangered species when they are reintroduced to the wild, solving the problem of inbreeding, and the high cost of conducting research were identified as some of the challenges in the field of conservation genetics.