Projects
CGSG projects are time-bound, thematic teams that deliver specific scientific or conservation outputs. These typically include technical guidelines, position statements, and methodological frameworks that address emerging or complex issues in conservation genetics.
New projects are identified through strategic planning sessions with the membership, where emerging priorities and gaps are discussed and agreed upon. Once topics are selected, members can volunteer to join via open sign-up sheets, and new members are encouraged to contact project leads directly to learn how they can participate. This approach ensures transparent formation, broad engagement, and opportunities for members at all career stages to contribute.
Subpopulation and ESU delineation
Leads: Julia Geue and Deborah Leigh
Status:iIn progress.
Description:
A two-phase framework to delineate genetic conservation units has been developed to support conservation assessments such as the IUCN Red List and the Green Status of Species. A standardized approach to conducting below-species assessments, particularly through broader use of subpopulation listings and the inclusion of Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs), will help better capture genetic diversity and improve conservation outcomes.
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Hybrids
Leads: Peter Galbusera and Alexander Kopatz
Status:iNear completion.
Description: The role of hybrids in conservation management and how to include them in Red List assessments is intensively discussed. To guide stakeholders CGSG has been publishing a scientific paper and is producing an IUCN Issue Brief.
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Translocations
Leads: Catherine Grueber, Isa-Rita Russo and Gernot Segelbacher
Status:iNear Completion.
Description: Together with the Conservation Translocation Specialist Group, CGSG is currently finalising a joint guiding document for genetic aspects in managing translocations.
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Biobanking
Leads: Christina Hvilsom
Status:iCompleted.
Description: Biobanks are playing a major role in conservation and management projects in situ and ex situ. CGSG has been producing a specific guidance document.
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