Anna Stuart

Interdisciplinary Study on the Role of OECMs and Genomic Erosion on Species’ Population Viability

Currently, genetic and genomic data are rarely included in vital conservation frameworks like the IUCN Red List or the Green Status of Species. My PhD research aims to explore the benefits of integrating genetics into these long-term assessments of species viability. Using spatially explicit simulation models (SLiM4), I will compare genetic and genomic scenarios against standard Red List and Green Status assessments, to determine the importance and impact of incorporating genetic metrics into conservation planning.

Moreover, I will investigate the conservation potential of Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs)—areas managed primarily for objectives other than biodiversity protection, yet capable of significantly enhancing habitat connectivity and supporting species recovery. Specifically, I will simulate how fragmented populations could benefit from OECMs acting as ecological corridors, evaluating their impact on gene flow and genetic connectivity.

My initial study species is the Echo Parakeet, a parrot from Mauritius whose remarkable recovery from near-extinction highlights the effectiveness of targeted conservation actions. Additionally, my research will extend to other parrot species, including the critically endangered Great Green Macaw from Central and South America, the Cayman Parrot and Australia's Swift Parrot, broadening the global relevance of my findings. To ensure robustness, model predictions will be validated using historical and contemporary genomic data from these species.

This multidisciplinary project combines genomics, spatial modelling, and policy analysis. Ultimately, I aim to provide actionable insights for local communities, conservation practitioners, and policymakers, contributing to more effective, inclusive, and genetically-informed conservation strategies.  

I have been fortunate enough to spend time in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, assisting with ecological sample collection from fascinating species such as ocelots, tayras, various bat species and an incredible variety of herps including caimans. Additionally, fieldwork experiences such as participating in research on a remote Greek island studying the impacts of microplastics on marine mammals have broadened my appreciation for the complexity of conservation challenges.

In Kent, you'll often find me birdwatching at weekends or working on my wildlife photography skills—though admittedly, there's still plenty of room for improvement! I completed my MRes in Biodiversity, Evolution, and Conservation at University College London (UCL) and the Natural History Museum London, deepening my commitment to conservation through two focused research projects.  

 Professor Jim Groombridge and Dr Daniel Ingram