James Gibbs

James Gibbs

Abstract

Range Collapses and the Loss of Genetic Variation within Species

Extirpation of local populations because of species range collapses is one of the least appreciated aspects of the current biological diversity crisis. Range collapse can, in particular, lead to the erosion of the component of genetic diversity within species that is unique to local populations. The dimensions of the issue are, however, poorly understood at present. Collector's curves applied to published gene frequency data can provide an intuitive means of examining the relationship between declining numbers of local populations and genetic diversity within a species, as well as for communicating whatÕs at stake to policymakers.

Biography

Dr. Gibbs is an Assistant Professor at SUNY-ESF in Syracuse and an Adjunct Research Scientist at Columbia University's Center for Environmental Research and Conservation. His primary interests lie in understanding the effects of land-use change on the persistence of wild species and, in particular, identifying the limits to which we can alter landscapes and still retain healthy complements of native species within them. He is also keenly interested in conservation education and training issues at the university level.

Relevant Publications

Elzinga, C. L. , D. W. Salzer, J. W. Willoughby, and J. P. Gibbs. 2001. Monitoring plant and animal populations. Blackwell Science, Inc. 360 pp.

Gibbs, J. P., and G. D. Amato. 2000. Genetics and demography in turtle conservation. Pp. 207-217 in Turtle conservation, M. W. Klemens, ed. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, D.C.

Caccone, A., J. P. Gibbs, V. Ketmaier, E. Suitoni, and J. R. Powell. 1999. Origin and evolutionary relationships of giant Galápagos tortoises. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 96: 13223-13228.

Gibbs, J. P., M. L. Hunter, Jr., and E. J. Sterling. 1998. Problem-solving in conservation biology and wildlife management. Blackwell Science, Inc. 215 pp.

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