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Genomic analyses reveal human activity's vital role in Amazonian species' genetic makeup

Researchers from the German Max Planck Institutes of Geoanthropology and Biology Tübingen use genomic data to study the decline in genetic diversity in the Amazon Basin, particularly in Brazil Nut trees.

The research aims to understand this keystone species' genetic health and adaptability, help reconstruct its demographic history, and assess the long-term impacts of human interaction on forest ecosystems. The findings emphasize the need for conservation strategies to consider both ecological and anthropogenic factors.

The significant decline in genetic diversity in the Amazon Basin, following historical events such as European colonization, deforestation and the extinction of megafauna such as the sloth—the main seed dispersal agents, is of particular concern for the genetic health of Brazil Nut trees (Bertholletia excelsa).

As one of the most impacted keystone species in rainforests, Brazil Nut trees are essential for biodiversity and a vital income source for local economies.

A crucial study led by researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology and the Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen unveils critical insights into the species' genetic diversity and population dynamics, providing valuable anthropocentric and biological information for this threatened forest ecosystem.

The research is published in the journal Current Biology.

"This research provides an amazing opportunity to study how human actions, even in the distant past, have affected genetic makeup in a wild species over short time scales," stated Detlef Weigel, Director of the Department of Molecular Biology at the Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen.

Genomic analyses reveal the importance of Indigenous management practices

Using advanced genomic techniques, the researchers comprehensively analyzed total sequence variants of 270 Brazil Nut tree samples with known archaeological evidence at different locations to reveal insights into genetic structure and gene flow.

The study provides detailed genomic data, including identifying over 126,000 genetic variants in Brazil Nut, providing valuable insights into the genetic health and adaptability of the species in the face of environmental changes.


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Jan 24, 2025
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Genomic analyses reveal human activity's vital role in Amazonian species' genetic makeup
by Max Planck Society

How human activity has shaped Brazil Nut forests' past and future
An example of a Brazil nut tree in the Amazon Basin. Credit: Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology/ Victor Caetano-Andrade

Researchers from the German Max Planck Institutes of Geoanthropology and Biology Tübingen use genomic data to study the decline in genetic diversity in the Amazon Basin, particularly in Brazil Nut trees.


The research aims to understand this keystone species' genetic health and adaptability, help reconstruct its demographic history, and assess the long-term impacts of human interaction on forest ecosystems. The findings emphasize the need for conservation strategies to consider both ecological and anthropogenic factors.

The significant decline in genetic diversity in the Amazon Basin, following historical events such as European colonization, deforestation and the extinction of megafauna such as the sloth—the main seed dispersal agents, is of particular concern for the genetic health of Brazil Nut trees (Bertholletia excelsa).

As one of the most impacted keystone species in rainforests, Brazil Nut trees are essential for biodiversity and a vital income source for local economies.

A crucial study led by researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology and the Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen unveils critical insights into the species' genetic diversity and population dynamics, providing valuable anthropocentric and biological information for this threatened forest ecosystem.

The research is published in the journal Current Biology.

"This research provides an amazing opportunity to study how human actions, even in the distant past, have affected genetic makeup in a wild species over short time scales," stated Detlef Weigel, Director of the Department of Molecular Biology at the Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen.


Genomic analyses reveal the importance of Indigenous management practices
Using advanced genomic techniques, the researchers comprehensively analyzed total sequence variants of 270 Brazil Nut tree samples with known archaeological evidence at different locations to reveal insights into genetic structure and gene flow.

The study provides detailed genomic data, including identifying over 126,000 genetic variants in Brazil Nut, providing valuable insights into the genetic health and adaptability of the species in the face of environmental changes.

How human activity has shaped Brazil Nut forests' past and future

Sale of Brazil nuts at a local market. Credit: Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology/ Victor Caetano-Andrade

The findings indicate that while the genetic diversity of Brazil Nut has drastically declined compared to other species over the last 20,000 years, the areas with a history of Indigenous management show more complex genetic backgrounds. The study reveals the connection between the plants and Indigenous land stewardship.

In particular, younger trees in the protected Tefé National Forest (TEF), estimated to be under 200 years old, exhibit complex genetic backgrounds compared to other studied groups, likely due to natural disturbances and local communities' management.

This genetic diversity is crucial for the species' resilience and adaptability in the face of environmental changes. Traditional ecological practices may promote the species' genetic diversity and health, providing a model for sustainable management.

Victor Caetano-Andrade, Postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanization at the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, explains, "We aimed to bridge gaps in our understanding of the long-term anthropogenic influences on forest ecosystems. Our findings demonstrate how Indigenous land management practices play a significant role in maintaining the genetic diversity of Brazil nut populations."

Promoting collaboration between scientists and local Indigenous land stewards and their historical ecological knowledge has the potential to create more effective and inclusive conservation policies.

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to expand their studies to include more regions and additional species within the Amazon rainforest. The goal is to develop comprehensive conservation frameworks that protect Brazil Nut trees and enhance the ecosystem's resilience.

Source: HERE



GOVERNOR PARKOP SUPPORTS EUROPEAN UNION GREEN DIPLOMACY WEEK

The European Union Green Diplomacy Week was officially launched yesterday at the Port Moresby Arts Theatre by European Union Ambassador to PNG, His Excellency Jacques Fradin, alongside National Capital District Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop.

This annual global campaign, led by the European Union and its Member States, aims to foster international cooperation on climate change and inspire meaningful action toward environmental sustainability.

His Excellency Jacques Fradin emphasized that the campaign actively engages youth from across Papua New Guinea in panel discussions over two days, focusing on leadership in climate action, biodiversity, forestry, and sustainability.

“These discussions will provide an opportunity for young people to ask critical questions and explore solutions to address biodiversity loss, climate change, and sustainability challenges as our nation faces these pressing issues,” said Ambassador Fradin.

Governor Parkop, a well-known advocate for climate action, expressed gratitude to the European Union for its commitment to addressing global environmental challenges and for supporting PNG’s efforts at both the local and international levels.

“As the leader of our capital city, I have been vocal on climate change not only at the national level but also as part of a global community. I am ready to partner with all our international friends to address the challenges that threaten our planet,” said Governor Parkop.

Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world’s most ecologically significant tropical rainforests, covering over 70% of the nation’s land area. These forests form part of the third-largest contiguous rainforest on Earth, serving as a vital biodiversity hotspot with species unique to PNG.

Governor Parkop stressed the need for partnerships with developed nations to ensure PNG progresses economically while preserving its natural environment.

“As a carbon-neutral nation, we face many challenges in achieving economic growth. However, through collaboration with nations that have advanced technologies and experience, we can develop sustainably without destroying our environment,” he said.

Governor Parkop also called for continued global support to protect PNG’s rainforests, which are not only crucial for our nation’s future but also for the planet’s environmental balance.

“Together, we must safeguard what we have and learn from global best practices to ensure economic progress aligns with environmental protection. This partnership is essential for creating a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea,” he added.

The Green Diplomacy Week launch aligns with Governor Parkop’s broader vision of transforming Port Moresby into a sustainable, eco-friendly, and thriving city where development goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.