Genetic Sustainability of Fragmented Conifer Populations from Stressed Areas in Northern Ontario (Canada): Application of Molecular Markers

The Earth’s genes, species, and ecosystems are the product of over 3 billion years of evolution and the basis for the survival of our own species. Biological diversity, the measure of the variation in genes, species and ecosystems is valuable because future practical uses and values are unpredictable and our understanding of ecosystems is insufficient to be certain of the impact of removing any component. Genetic diversity is an indicator of ecosystem condition and sustainability. It is a fundamental component of biodiversity and it encompasses all of the genetically determined differences that occur between individuals of a species. The loss of biodiversity is due above all to economic factors, especially the low values given to biodiversity and ecological functions such as watershed protection, nutrient cycling, pollution control, soil formation and photosynthesis. Biodiversity is very much a cross-sectoral issue, and virtually all sectors have an interest in its conservation and the sustainable use of its components. Biological resources are renewable and with proper management can support human needs indefinitely. These resources, and the diversity of the systems which support them, are therefore the essential foundation of sustainable development.