Integrative biology and genetic resources management.

Integrative Biology is exemplified by a diversity of recently established collaborations to study the genetic diversity of the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus. Molecular markers were developed and used to investigate the link between wild population decreases or domestication procedures and possible losses of genetic diversity. Simultaneously, a European programme was launched for the management of genetic resources. The Integrative Biology approach shows that changes in genetic diversity are often buffered by the flexibility of rabbit reproductive systems. It appears, also, that all domestic animals belong to a subset of the wild genetic pool of their species without major loss of diversity despite exposure to severe viral infections. Consequently, management of genetic resources for production purposes and conservation or protection of declining Iberian wild populations require different approaches and measures.