Research Publication

One hundred research questions in conservation physiology for generating actionable evidence to inform conservation policy and practice

By Steven J. Cooke, Jordanna N. Bergman, Christine L. Madliger, Rebecca L. Cramp, John Beardall, Gary Burness, Timothy D. Clark, Ben Dantzer, Erick de la Barrera, Nann A. Fangue, Craig E. Franklin, Andrea Fuller, Lucy A. Hawkes, Kevin R. Hultine, Kathleen E. Hunt, Oliver P. Love, Heath A. MacMillan, John W. Mandelman, Felix C. Mark, Lynn B. Martin, Amy E. M. Newman, Adrienne B. Nicotra, Graham D. Raby, Sharon A. Robinson, Yan Ropert-Coudert, Jodie L. Rummer, Frank Seebacher, Anne E. Todgham, Sean Tomlinson, Steven L. Chown

Originally published in Conservation Physiology in April 2021

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Abstract

Environmental change and biodiversity loss are but two of the complex challenges facing conservation practitioners and policy makers. Relevant and robust scientific knowledge is critical for providing decision-makers with the actionable evidence needed to inform conservation decisions. In the Anthropocene, science that leads to meaningful improvements in biodiversity conservation, restoration and management is desperately needed. Conservation Physiology has emerged as a discipline that is well-positioned to identify the mechanisms underpinning population declines, predict responses to environmental change and test different in situ and ex situ conservation interventions for diverse taxa and ecosystems. Here we present a consensus list of 10 priority research themes. Within each theme we identify specific research questions (100 in total), answers to which will address conservation problems and should improve the management of biological resources. The themes frame a set of research questions related to the following: (i) adaptation and phenotypic plasticity; (ii) human–induced environmental change; (iii) human–wildlife interactions; (iv) invasive species; (v) methods, biomarkers and monitoring; (vi) policy, engagement and communication; (vii) pollution; (viii) restoration actions; (ix) threatened species; and (x) urban systems. The themes and questions will hopefully guide and inspire researchers while also helping to demonstrate to practitioners and policy makers the many ways in which physiology can help to support their decisions.

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Affiliated Authors
  • expert

    John Mandelman, PhD, Vice President and Chief Scientist, Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life

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Through pioneering conservation research and strategic partnerships, our team of 40 scientists at the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life works to combat the unprecedented impacts on the ocean from climate change and other human activities.

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