Introduction to Conservation Genetics

Paperback  640 pp, 300 diags, 8 illus, 47 tabs  ISBN 0521639859      £35.00

The biological diversity of our planet is being depleted due to the direct and indirect consequences of human activity. As the size of animal and plant populations decrease, loss of genetic diversity reduces their ability to adapt to changes in the environment, with inbreeding depression an inevitable consequence for many species. This textbook provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to the importance of genetic studies in conservation. The text is presented in an easy-to-follow format with main points and terms clearly highlighted. Each chapter concludes with a concise summary, which, together with worked examples and problems and answers, emphasise the key principles covered. Text boxes containing interesting case studies and other additional information enrich the content throughout, and over 100 beautiful pen and ink portraits of endangered species help bring the material to life.

Contents

Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Introduction; 2. Genetics and extinction; Part I. Evolutionary Genetics of Natural Populations: 3. Genetic diversity; 4. Characterizing genetic diversity: single loci; 5. Characterizing genetic diversity: quantitative variation; 6. Evolution in large populations: natural selection and adaptation; 7. Evolution in large populations: mutation, migration and their interactions with selection; 8. Evolution in small populations; 9. Maintenance of genetic diversity; Part II. Effects of Population Size Reduction: 10. Loss of genetic diversity in small populations; 11. Inbreeding; 12. Inbreeding depression; 13. Population fragmentation; 14. Genetically viable populations; Part III. From Theory to Practice: 15. Resolving taxonomic uncertainties and defining management units; 16. Genetics and management of wild populations; 17. Genetic management of captive populations; 18. Genetic management for reintroduction; 19. Use of molecular genetics in forensics and to understand species biology; 20. The broader context: Population Viability Analysis (PVA); Take home messages from this book; Revision problems; Glossary; Answers to problems; References; Index.