Conservation Museomics

To address the challenges of sampling endangered or extinct species in the field, many studies have turned to historically underutilized sources of genetic material: natural history museums. Despite the fact that DNA from specimens collected decades or even hundreds of years ago is often fragmented and degraded, research has shown that historical DNA can still be used effectively to infer phylogenetic relationships and intra-specific patterns of population genetic structure. This module aims to provide students and conservation practitioners with a solid understanding of the methodological strategies needed to apply genetic tools to natural history museum specimens. Specifically, we offer clear definitions and essential considerations for designing a conservation genomics project that includes both modern and historical samples. We recommend that instructors use the synthesis "Applications of museum collections and genomics to biodiversity conservation" to introduce the foundational knowledge required for two companion exercises: "The application of conservation museomics approaches to the protection of the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus)" and "Designing a conservation genomics project incorporating DNA from museum specimens."