Climate change reduces genetic diversity of Canada lynx at the trailing range edge

This study linked landscape genetics to climate projections for Canada lynx, asking how warming-driven habitat contraction would affect genetic diversity along the species' southern, trailing range edge. By modeling future habitat suitability and the connectivity that sustains gene flow, the authors projected that climate change would isolate peripheral populations and erode their genetic diversity over coming decades. The work is notable for moving beyond simple range maps to forecast the genetic consequences of climate-driven fragmentation, showing that trailing-edge populations face not only shrinking habitat but declining adaptive potential. It strengthened the case for maintaining north-south connectivity so that genetic variation can track shifting climate space.