Understanding Genomic Connectivity and Adaptive Diversity for Fish Conservation in Human-Modified Landscapes

The field of fish conservation is grappling with the complex challenges posed by human-modified landscapes. As habitats undergo rapid transformation due to urbanization, agriculture, and industrial activities, understanding genomic connectivity and adaptive diversity becomes paramount. Genetic connectivity, defined by the movement and exchange of genes among populations, plays a crucial role in maintaining the genetic health and evolutionary potential of fish species. Simultaneously, adaptive diversity—reflected in the genetic variations enabling species to cope with environmental changes—underpins resilience and long-term survival. However, habitat fragmentation, pollution, and other anthropogenic stressors can isolate populations, reduce genetic diversity, and limit adaptive potential, complicating conservation efforts. This evolving landscape of threats and opportunities necessitates a deeper exploration into the genetic underpinnings that drive adaptation and connectivity in fish populations.

The primary objective of this Research Topic is to enhance our understanding of how genomic connectivity and adaptive diversity can inform and improve conservation strategies for fish in human-modified landscapes. We aim to investigate key questions such as: How do altered habitats impact gene flow and connectivity among fish populations? What are the genomic signatures of adaptation to human-induced environmental pressures? How can this knowledge guide conservation practices to foster resilience and stability in fish populations? By addressing these questions, the Research Topic seeks to uncover insights that will support the development of robust, science-based conservation strategies.

Focused on advancing fish conservation within human-modified ecosystems, this Research Topic encompasses a range of themes and invites contributions that explore, but are not limited to, the following areas:

- Investigating the effects of habitat fragmentation on genetic connectivity among fish populations

- Understanding the role of adaptive genetic diversity in driving resilience to environmental changes

- Applying genomic tools to identify conservation priorities and manage genetic risks

- Exploring case studies of successful genetic conservation models in disturbed landscapes

- Evaluating the potential for assisted gene flow and genetic rescue interventions

- Analyzing the influence of urbanization and pollution on adaptive genetic responses in fish

- Integration of Species Distribution Models or related approaches, linking genomic insights and ecological projections, reflecting future directions in conservation research

By gathering these diverse investigations, this Research Topic aims to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical conservation actions, ultimately contributing to the resilience and viability of fish populations in the face of ongoing environmental change.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Genomic Connectivity, Adaptive Genetic Diversity, Habitat Fragmentation, Human-Modified Landscapes, Conservation Genomics

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.