The impact of taxonomic confusion on conservation resources – Why population genomics should inform threatened species determination

Abstract

Threat determinations are the primary legal tools guiding conservation decisions to protect threatened species. Therefore, accurate taxonomic delimitation of these taxa is crucial for effective actions. Advances in genomics now offer powerful and cost-effective tools for rigorous taxonomic assessment but current listing processes rarely use population genomics to inform taxonomic boundaries before finalising listings. Here we discuss two examples highlighting the consequences of inadequate taxonomic resolution on biodiversity conservation. To avoid misdirected efforts and resources, we advocate that genomics is incorporated into conservation policy and management as a key companion to taxonomic assessment.