Current and future challenges of conserving freshwater biodiversity: a molecular perspective

Hughes Jane M., . Current and future challenges of conserving freshwater biodiversity: a molecular perspective. pp. 413-426. ISSN ISSN:1511-3701

As the worlds population continues to grow human water needs are growing accordingly thus reducing the water available for sustaining our freshwater biodiversity. This is likely to be further exacerbated in areas where rainfall will decrease as a result of global climate change. Molecular ecologists have contributed substantially in recent years to our understanding of first the levels and patterns of current biodiversity and second to understanding patterns of connectivity among populations of aquatic species and their significance for their conservation and management. Both are critical for prioritisation of areas for protection and for designing rehabilitation programmes. In this paper I attempt to synthesise our understandings to date. I argue that a multi-disciplinary approach that incorporates new technological approaches in acquisition of molecular data is the best way forward for our aquatic biodiversity. Molecular ecologists can contribute by collaborating with other ecologists especially in the fields of species distribution modelling and conservation planning. This approach will help to prioritise conservation actions for the best possible outcomes.

Full text available from: Official URL: http://www.pertanika2.upm.edu.my/Pertanika%20PAPER...

Abstract

As the worlds population continues to grow human water needs are growing accordingly thus reducing the water available for sustaining our freshwater biodiversity. This is likely to be further exacerbated in areas where rainfall will decrease as a result of global climate change. Molecular ecologists have contributed substantially in recent years to our understanding of first the levels and patterns of current biodiversity and second to understanding patterns of connectivity among populations of aquatic species and their significance for their conservation and management. Both are critical for prioritisation of areas for protection and for designing rehabilitation programmes. In this paper I attempt to synthesise our understandings to date. I argue that a multi-disciplinary approach that incorporates new technological approaches in acquisition of molecular data is the best way forward for our aquatic biodiversity. Molecular ecologists can contribute by collaborating with other ecologists especially in the fields of species distribution modelling and conservation planning. This approach will help to prioritise conservation actions for the best possible outcomes.

[error in script]

Item Type:	Article
AGROVOC Term:	Freshwater
AGROVOC Term:	Biodiversity
AGROVOC Term:	Water conservation
AGROVOC Term:	Climate change
AGROVOC Term:	Aquatic animals
AGROVOC Term:	Habitats
AGROVOC Term:	Juveniles
AGROVOC Term:	Marine animals
AGROVOC Term:	Genetic markers
AGROVOC Term:	Rainfall
Depositing User:	Ms. Suzila Mohamad Kasim
Last Modified:	24 Apr 2025 06:27
URI:	http://webagris.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/22000

Actions (login required)

View Item