Why conserve genetic diversity? A perspective based on a case study with a European conifer

Scientific studies in the fields of either conservation or biodiversity consider genetics in less than 10% of scientific productions. While genetic tools are used for taxonomic delineation, concerns about diversity within species at population level appear comparatively rare in conservation and biodiversity science or management. The use of genetic tools for the conservation of genetic diversity of Salzmann's pine in France clarified its taxonomic status, identified populations relevant for in-situ conservation compatible with habitat conservation and made it possible to select genetically original individual trees that could be grafted as a core collection for dynamic ex-situ conservation. As threats on biodiversity increase worldwide, fully integrating genetic diversity in conservation demands that conservation adopts an evolutionary centered, nature for itself perspective, rather than either an anthropocentric, resource focused perspective or a bio-centered, emblematic species focused perspective.