UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
RESEARCH SEMINARS
Abstract form
Title: Conservation biology research tools: From field surveys to molecular
genetics
Presenter: Dr. Adriana Vella
Contact address: Conservation Biology Research Group, Dept. of Biology,
University of Malta
Tel: (+356)23402790
Fax: (+356)23403049
Email: avel@cis.um.edu.mt
Presentation date: 27th February 2006
Abstract
The human population has expanded at the expense of increased exploitation or extinction of
natural resources. Due to this conserving biodiversity is important.
S. Levin (1999) stated: “The central environmental challenge of our time is embodied in the
staggering losses, both recent and projected of biological diversity at all levels, from the
smallest organisms to charismatic large animals and towering trees.”
A 1998 survey of 400 biological scientists world wide found that “the rapid disappearance
of species was ranked as one of the planet’s gravest environmental worries, surpassing
pollution, global warming…” and other threats (Warrick, 1998).
Conservation of biodiversity research and applications are therefore necessary toward
promoting stability and persistence of the global system. There are several levels at which
this biological diversity needs to be considered, assessed and protected. For this purpose
information needed must range from large systems including whole ecosystems’ functioning
down to the individual species and populations’ viability.
Molecular genetics techniques may increasingly provide the appropriate tools to evaluate not
only populations but also their habitats leading to the development of the best monitoring
and management strategies.
The Maltese Islands with their unique but fragile ecosystems and species also require
accurate and detailed conservation research and monitoring. Examples of the research
projects targeting this need will also be highlighted.