Genetic diversity Monitoring

Pilot study for a Genetic diversity Monitoring in Switzerland

In this pilot study, in collaboration with the external pageFOENcall_made (Federal office for the environment), we test the feasibility of a Swiss genetic monitoring program. On the basis of the results, initial statements can be made about the current state and change of genetic diversity in time. An overview of the study and its progress is published on gendiv.ethz.ch.

Five animal and plant species are genetically examined in this the pilot study, while then long-term goal is to monitor at least 50 species. The five species include animal and plant species from different groups of organisms that are of interest in species protection or are affected by anthropogenic influences such as global warming, pesticide entry or habitat fragmentation. About 300 samples per species are collected throughout Switzerland. The entire genome of these individuals will be sequenced using the latest high-throughput sequencing technologies, thus creating a reference value for the genetic diversity of these species today. Indicators that provide conclusions about population structure, gene flow, inbreeding, hybridization and adaptive potential can be tested. Furthermore, for two of the species samples from historical collections and herbaria are sequenced to get estimates of genetic diversity changes over time, a so called retrospective genetic monitoring, to get a better understand on how genetic diversity is changing in time and what are the main drivers of such changes.

In addition to get first results on the current state of genetic diversity and past changes, this pilot study is aimed to test and elaborate sampling methods, data processing, and develop analytical pipelines. At the same time, important stakeholders are involved and the investigation is broadly supported.