Yanlin Wang , Jia Chen

Tropical Animal Resources Research Center, Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Sanya 572025, Hainan, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 4   doi: 10.5376/ijmeb.2024.14.0021
Received: 09 Jul., 2024    Accepted: 17 Aug., 2024    Published: 25 Aug., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Wang Y.L., and Chen J., 2024, Genetic adaptation in avian species to rapid environmental changes, International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity, 14(4): 197-207 (doi: 10.5376/ijmeb.2024.14.0021)

This study explores the genetic adaptation mechanisms in avian species as they respond to rapid environmental changes. It identifies natural selection, genetic mutations, gene flow, and epigenetic mechanisms as pivotal drivers of adaptation, enabling birds to survive and thrive amidst challenges such as climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, and invasive species. Migration is highlighted as a crucial factor in maintaining genetic diversity and facilitating rapid evolutionary changes, particularly through gene flow between geographically separated populations. The case study of Arctic terns offers unique insights into how extensive migratory behaviors contribute to genetic differentiation and adaptive potential, showcasing the interplay between environmental challenges and genetic responses. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding these mechanisms to inform conservation strategies, particularly the preservation of genetic diversity, which is critical for the long-term survival of avian species in the face of accelerating environmental changes. By synthesizing current research and case studies, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of how birds adapt genetically to changing environments, underscoring the need for ongoing research and targeted conservation efforts.

Avian species; Genetic adaptation; Rapid environmental changes; Migration; Conservation strategies