An evolutionary approach to conservation ecology and ecosystem management

Abstract

Research has shown that evolution occurs on the same timescales as changes in population size, and that gene frequency and population dynamics interact with each other. A growing recognition of such eco-evolutionary dynamics highlights a need to study how ecological and evolutionary interactions play out on timescales most relevant to conservation and management. However, the roles of evolution in the outcomes of conservation and ecosystem management are not well understood. This review aims to illustrate the importance of considering evolutionary perspectives in conservation ecology when faced with anthropogenic environmental changes such as climate change, habitat fragmentation, and alien species. We describe the fundamental processes underlying evolution and discuss how evolutionary approaches affect conservation outcomes, as well as specific measures and future prospects for improving conservation and ecosystem management.