Integrating conservation genetics into Philippine pangolin (Manis culionensis) research: insights and future directions

The Philippine pangolin ( Manis culionensis ) is a critically endangered species and one of the least studied among the eight extant pangolin species from Asia and Africa. Methodologies in conservation genetics, such as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) barcoding and genomic analysis, render relevant and crucial information for addressing uncertainties in species identification and supporting evidence in wildlife forensics. In this perspective paper, we examine the application of molecular genetics in studying the Philippine pangolin and its comparative assessment of efficiency and effectiveness for conservation outcomes. We argue that the application of conservation genetics should translate into Philippine pangolin conservation outcomes through expanding the unit of analysis from the molecular to the landscape level, integrating adaptive and complementary research methods, and developing or strengthening of strategic multi-sectoral collaboration.