Next-generation genomics for biodiversity discovery and
conservation
Agostinho Antunes1, 2
(1) CIIMAR/CIMAR, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, University of Porto,
Rua dos Bragas, 177; 4050-123 Porto, Portugal.
(2) Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto. Rua do Campo Alegre,
4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
e-mail: aantunes@ciimar.up.pt
Abstract
The completion of the human genome sequencing in 2003 opened a new perspective
into the importance of whole genome sequencing projects, and currently multiple
species are having their genomes completed sequenced, from simple organisms, such
as bacteria, to more complex taxa, such as mammals. This voluminous sequencing
data generated across multiple organisms provides also the framework to better
understand the genetic makeup of such species and related ones, allowing the
assessment of its evolutionary histories and patterns of genetic diversity that can be
highly valuable for conservation. The utility of genomics in the in-situ and ex-situ
conservation of biodiversity will be discussed, with emphasis on case studies
comprehending endangered and neglected terrestrial and marine species.
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