Contemporary genetic adaptation in zoos and conservation breeding programs

Conservation breeding programs can be vital for combating biodiversity loss, but optimization of these programs is crucial for success. Genetic adaptation to captivity is suspected to hinder reintroductions yet remains largely untested. Using an extensive dataset of breeding programs, we assessed adaptive genetic change in 31 vertebrate populations, marking the broadest estimation of additive genetic variance of fitness to date. Our findings indicate widespread, adaptive genetic change in ex situ populations, with estimates comparable to wild populations. While this adaptation may enhance fitness in captivity, concerns arise regarding how genetic divergence could impact reintroduction success. Our results confirm the importance of anthropogenic effects on microevolution and highlight the need for a better understanding of genetic adaptation in captivity to ensure breeding populations can fulfill their potential.