Conservation Biology News

"Interspecies Introgression Boosts Iberian Lynx Diversity"

Recent research has revealed an increase in species-wide diversity in the highly endangered Iberian lynx following interspecies introgression, which involves the transfer of genetic material between different species. This genetic rescue has been identified through the analysis of ancient DNA, shedding light on the impact of demographic bottlenecks and the potential for conservation efforts to enhance genetic diversity in endangered populations.