Aims

The following aims will be accomplished by involving a balanced representation of scientists and practitioners from a diversity of countries: 1) clearly articulating for managers how genetic diversity can support ecosystems; 2) developing and testing best practice protocols for monitoring genetic diversity in time and space; 3) providing an online forum on emerging tools; 4) connecting all stakeholders through networking and training opportunities; 4) building a network of conservation genetics labs; 5) building a foundation for long term impact. Results will be disseminated in easy-to-read summaries for practitioners and outreach to the public at Natura 2000 sites, botanic gardens and zoos as well as in scientific publications.

Specific G-BIKE objectives

1. Develop common tools - the frame - where genomic science can be practically incorporated to better address ecosystem management and policy priorities, emphasizing their application in diverse countries and focusing on economic relevance. These tools will allow Scientists to acquire better familiarity with conservation issues, practical problems, problem-based solutions and framing information to support decision.

2. Develop shared and agreed protocols for monitoring genetic diversity within species on acontinental scale, specifically to manage species and ecosystems under the Habitat Directive and Natura 2000 network. A first step will tackle the development of potential indicators (primarily genetic but also non-genetic “proxies”). In a second step protocols for the monitoring using these indicators will be validated.

3. Develop models and protocols to integrate genetic diversity into existing EU biodiversity policy and other transnational instruments (IUCN European Red List and National Red Lists, Key Biodiversity Areas, monitoring Natura 2000 sites, CBD and Target 13), including a specific working group devoted to ensuring application of Action outputs as far as possible.

4. Provide information and guidance for the use of novel biotechnological tools for conservation problems such as e.g. controlling invasive and non-native species and/or diseases. Communicating the benefits and risks of such approaches to stakeholders

5. Advance the theoretical framework for “genes to ecosystems” thinking- identifying the practical situations in which genetic diversity is most likely to have consequences beyond a single species ,such as ecosystem functioning or ecosystem resilience. An up-to-date literature review will be performed and results summarized for Practitioners.

6. Disseminate outputs in scientific publications, policy briefs but also in easy-to-read summaries for practitioners, with action items, FAQs, and agreed upon best practice procedures.