Genetics

The impact of climate warming on Arctic organisms is
complex, and its interpretation will require a concerted
effort. To mitigate the impact of climate-induced perturbations, an essential first step is to develop an understanding of how high latitude species and ecosystems
were influenced by past episodes of dynamic environmental change. One of our best views of past change in
Arctic populations is through molecular genetics (e.g.
DNA studies). DNA-based views provide a basis for forecasting how biomes and individual species will respond in
the future and thus are a key component of an advanced
early-warning system for natural environments of the
Arctic.
Species typically adapt to new conditions or shift into
new areas, but a number of Arctic species are now experiencing a reduction in their distributions, abundance
and ability to exchange individuals among populations.
Molecular genetic approaches are used in a wide range
of studies to provide comprehensive assessments of how
species interact with their environments. Important insights have been gained related to the conservation status
of high latitude species of concern, but because Arctic
environments are remote and difficult to access, only
limited information is available about most essential factors for organisms (e.g. contemporary genetic diversity,
evolutionary history, modes of reproduction). A coordinated investment in biological infrastructure is needed
now (similar to that already in place for monitoring the
physical environment) if we are to apply and realize the
powerful insights provided by molecular genetics.