Biodiversity resilience relies on genetic diversity, which sustains the persistence and evolutionary potential of organisms in dynamic ecosystems. Genomics is a powerful tool for estimating genome-wide genetic diversity, offering precise and accurate estimates of the status and trajectory of genetic diversity within species and populations. However, the widespread integration of genomic information into biodiversity conservation and management efforts faces challenges due to a lack of standardised genome-wide data generation methods and applications. The heterogeneity of approaches can make it difficult to consistently interpret the results and clearly communicate key information to stakeholders such as practitioners and decision-makers. To begin to address these challenges, the European Reference Genome Atlas (ERGA) promotes the standardisation of methodologies for high-quality reference genome sequencing and analysis as part of the global network of the Earth BioGenome Project. ERGA is also proactively developing best practices to engage stakeholders in biodiversity genomics research, starting with examining case studies and conducting mapping efforts to familiarise researchers with pathways to effective engagement. An emerging theme is the researchers’ experience of variable perceptions amongst stakeholders of the value and utility of reference genomes and genomics data in biodiversity conservation and management. Addressing this issue calls for consensus on standardised genome-wide data generation methods and applications that will help to deliver the highest standards for accuracy, interpretability, and comparability. We believe converging on consensus methods standardisation is essential for fostering the stakeholder trust and confidence required to successfully promote widespread adoption of genome-wide genetic diversity assessments in biodiversity conservation and management.

A comprehensive understanding of the dietary habits of carnivores is essential to get ecological insights into their role in the ecosystem, potential competition with other carnivorous species, and their effect on prey populations. Genetic analysis of non-invasive samples, such as scats, can supplement behavioural or microscopic diet investigations. The objective of this study was to employ DNA metabarcoding to accurately determine the prey species in grey wolf (Canis lupus) and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) scat samples collected in the Julian Alps and the Dinaric Mountains, Slovenia. The primary prey of wolves were red deer (Cervus elaphus) (detected in 96% scat samples), European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) (68%), and wild boar (Sus scrofa) (45%). A smaller portion of their diet consisted of mesocarnivores, small mammals, and domestic animals. In contrast, the lynx diet mostly consisted of European roe deer (82%) and red deer (64%). However, small mammals and domestic animals were also present in lynx diet, albeit to a lesser extent. Our findings indicate that the dietary habits of wolves and lynx are influenced by geographical location and prey availability. Snapshot dietary analyses using metabarcoding are valuable for comprehending the behaviour and ecology of predators, and for devising conservation measures aimed at sustainable management of both their natural habitats and prey populations. However, to gain a more detailed understanding of wolf and lynx dietary habits and ecological impact, it would be essential to conduct long-term genetic monitoring of their diet.