Structural and Functional Genomics for Assessment of Genetic Variability

Implementation of the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD) at the global level and enactment of the Biological Diversity Act 2002 by the Parliament of India have accelerated the efforts for mainstreaming of our natural genetic resources. The biodiversity conservation essentially requires information on genetic diversity at inter-and intraspecies level and for planning conservation and management strategies and decisions, based on scientific data. Recent years have witnessed the emergence of a variety of genomics tools, which have facilitated characterization and assessment of genetic diversity at the genomics level. In addition, these have led to better understanding of genome structure and functions, including underlying mechanisms for biological traits. In this chapter, the advancements in the structural and functional genomics studies in fishes have been reviewed and their potential applications for generation and assessment of our endemic fish diversity, including improved varieties developed through selection. This would enable us to encounter the changing global scenario, following conservation of biodiversity and their sustainable use.