Genomes on islands: Improving management of Australia's threatened mammals

This research aims to to improve management of endangered mammals by combining data on genomic and morphological variation with results from conservation translocations. Using new genomics methods, the project aims to measure precisely the effects of small population size on genetic diversity and mutation load in extinct as well as remnant and translocated populations. By doing this for 7 intensively managed marsupial species the research aims to test effects of genetic metrics on short-term translocation outcomes. Then, using evidence on genomic and phenotypic divergence of populations for already combined for translocations, the project aims to provide validated guidance on when and how to mix populations for fauna restoration projects.