Identification of Traits, Genes, and Crops of the Future

Abstract

Studies on vulnerability and resilience of forest plant communities and crop species have multiplied with the growing realization that societal and scientific response is necessary to adapt to climate change impacts. The DPSIR (Driving forces, Pressure, State, Impact, Response) conceptual framework provides one of the simplest structure of indicators required to connect and model the dynamic systems of the causative and correlative components of climate envelopes and the genetic and genomic complexities regulating adaptive plant response to fluctuating environments and climate. Paleoclimate and vegetation type reconstruction from fossil records and species vicariance help in understanding the long-term dynamics of plant features and trait evolution associated with dispersal and climate changes. Comparative genomics demonstrated as alleles for those plant features (i.e., plant morphology and phenophase alteration), and for biotic (response to bacterial and fungal pathogens) and abiotic (i.e., drought, flooding) stress resistance are still part of the standing genetic endowment of the living gene pools of the crop and forest

A Review on Bridging Molecular Biology and Ecological Dynamics through Integrative Approaches in Zoology

“…The preservation of genetic diversity is a cornerstone of conservation biology, as it is essential for species' adaptability to changing environmental conditions. Molecular ecology has significantly enhanced our ability to assess and monitor genetic diversity within and among populations, aiding in the development of more effective conservation strategies.Techniques such as DNA barcoding and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been instrumental in identifying genetic markers associated with adaptive traits and resilience, facilitating the conservation of genetic resources [38]. For instance, these molecular tools have enabled conservationists to identify genetically important individuals and populations, guiding efforts in captive breeding programs and habitat restoration initiatives to maintain or enhance genetic diversity.…”