Seascape genomics: assisting marine biodiversity management by combining genetic knowledge with environmental and ecological information

Abstract

Biodiversity, including genetic diversity, is the foundation of ecosystems and the well-being of all organisms, including humans. Determining how the marine environment shapes genetic diversity and developing best practices to conserve it requires a multi-disciplinary approach incorporating genomic and environmental information. Seascape genetics and genomics combine spatially resolved ecological, genomic and environmental data coupled with modeling to explore past, present and future patterns of diversity and connectivity. Seascape genetics and genomics provide scientists and managers with a multi-faceted tool that can be applied across a wide range of species and can be incorporated into marine spatial management. Despite the known importance of genetic diversity, the incorporation of genetic and genomic data is grossly underrepresented in policy, decision-making and conservation measures. We aim to support the understanding and access to seascape genetics and genomics information for conservation and management practitioners. We explain how integrating environment, space, traits, and genetics or genomics can advance marine spatial management. We also outline the scientific and policy context of seascape genomics and the corresponding methodology and concepts, exemplified by two specific case studies. Lastly, we review the present status of seascape genomics research and discuss present challenges, strengths, and future opportunities by providing a road map that could aid the integration of seascape genomics into management.