Genetics and Genomics

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Welcome to the USGS Genetics and Genomics Web site. In 1850, Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk, began to experiment with pea plants by cultivating them and analyzing their seed and plant characteristics. Heredity, or the existence of genes, had not yet been discovered. Mendel published his findings in 1866. His work went largely unnoticed until 1900, when three additional investigators, including Dutch botanist Hugo Marie de Vries, independently corroborated his work. It was not until the early 1930s, almost 50 years after Mendel’s death, that the full significance of his work was realized.

Much has changed since that time. Genetics is now broadly recognized as the science of the study of the behavior and function of genes. Genomics is the study of the structure, function, and evolution of genomes. Advances are rapidly occurring, in part, due to the development of new tools designed to answer questions about genetics at the molecular, cellular, and whole genome levels.

These technologies are coming at a critical time. As our environment changes, urgent answers to questions at the gene and genome levels are needed. USGS geneticists work to provide answers to questions of genetics for use in making sound management decisions on fish and wildlife, including their habitat and conservation. Our findings support Endangered Species Act considerations, providing population structure and species information. Genetic research can also assess effects on fish, wildlife, and habitat, from exposure to invasive, nonnative species or genetically engineered plants and animals. Wildlife disease studied from a genetics perspective can help predict whether or when a pathogen will cross over to infect other species, become more virulent, or spread to other parts of the world. Genetics techniques answer questions of plant and animal actions when exposed to contaminants or toxins. Predicting beach health and providing early notification of high levels of pathogenic microbes in aquatic environments to warn swimmers is also determined using genetics-related science.
USGS geneticists work in all of these genetics arenas and more. We hope you enjoy visiting our genetics and genomics Web site. You are encouraged to contact the scientists directly, or you may contact me for further information, Kay M. Briggs.

	Research for Resource Management Genetics and genomics USGS biology research is supported by the USGS Biology Science Programs. Conservation Genetics Researchers apply the tools and concepts of genetics to the conservation of biological resources. DNA Libraries of Trematode Parasites Epidemiology of Fish and Wildlife Diseases Wildlife health experts apply the latest tools of molecular biology and genetics to address the ecology of infectious diseases affecting both fish and wildlife. Avian Influenza: Rapid Detection Sea Otters and Gene Expression Environmental Toxicology Toxicologists use genomics to develop, apply, and validate methods for assessing the effects of contaminants and other environmental stressors on wild populations. Genetically Engineered Organisms Researchers are investigating the utility of genetic engineering for use in controlling or eradicating invasive species. See all genetics and genomics Research Activities.