Swedish researchers have been at the forefront of developing techniques to monitor genetic diversity for many decades, and researchers at Stockholm University have pushed internationally for better monitoring of threatened species globally.
– This is the very basis of biological diversity, and the key for species to be able to survive environmental changes and diseases. It is necessary for them to be able to adapt, says Linda Laikre, professor of population genetics at Stockholm University.
Swedish moose show signs of inbreeding
Right now they are working, among other things, on an extensive study of Swedish moose, with DNA samples from the 1800s, which have been collected from museums, among other things.
It flashes yellow on the screen for moose in southern Sweden. There, the population is low and in the genetic variation, signs of inbreeding are already visible in the samples from the 1980s.
– We are investigating this more closely to understand what is causing it. But with these methods, we can see worrying signs much earlier than before. It gives us more time and better knowledge.
Have worked out simpler methods
Not all countries can afford DNA-based monitoring of diversity. But in July this year, an international research team, with a Swedish team led by Linda Laikre, showed that there are new techniques that provide alternatives.
The large global studyn showed that it is possible to monitor endangered species genetically – even in more simplified ways, based on the size and number of species populations. This means that you can collect and use already existing studies where species have been counted and mapped, and get a more comprehensive result.
It also enables large-scale mapping both nationally and globally. And now they are taking help from AI.
– We are trying to automate the monitoring of available observational studies – to get even faster, cheaper and more effective methods, which the whole world can use.
Serious situation – but some glimmers of light
The monitoring has so far shown that the situation for some of the investigated species is serious. In Sweden, 120 species were examined, among the amphibians less than half were judged to be numerous enough to be able to survive in the long term.
– But the size of these populations has nevertheless been stable over time, which is encouraging, says Linda Laikre.