Genomic Insights into The Adaptation and Conservation of Endangered Mammals in Fragmented Habitats (Research Article)

Author(s): Mustafa Sharmila*

Abstract: Habitat fragmentation reshapes genetic diversity, gene flow, and adaptive potential in endangered mammals. Leveraging whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and landscape genomics, we evaluate how patch size, matrix resistance, and climatic heterogeneity influence genomic diversity, inbreeding, and signals of local adaptation across a threatened mammalian species complex. We integrate runs of homozygosity (ROH), effective population size (N_e) trajectories, population differentiation (F_ST), genotype–environment associations (GEAs), and resistance-based connectivity models to identify conservation units and prioritize corridors. Our results (illustrated with synthetic data/plots) show (i) declining heterozygosity with decreasing patch area, (ii) elevated ROH in isolated patches, (iii) environment-associated SNPs in pathways linked to thermoregulation and hypoxia, and (iv) corridors that restore >30% of contemporary connectivity. We propose a decision framework that combines adaptive and neutral variation to guide translocations, corridor design, and genetic rescue while minimizing outbreeding risks.

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