About

The Australian Amphibian and Reptile Genomics Initiative (AusARG) is a national collaborative project that that will facilitate research using genomics approaches towards a more thorough understanding of evolution and conservation of Australia’s unique native Amphibians and Reptiles that are now under threat, through climate, disease or habitat modification.

The mission of the Australian Amphibian and Reptile Genomics (AusARG) initiative is to build genomic resources to understand and protect Australia’s reptiles and amphibians

Tiliqua rugosa, photo: Mark Norman, source: Museums Victoria
Tiliqua rugosa, photo: Mark Norman, source: Museums Victoria

The consortium objectives are to:

  • Build a foundation of genomic data to advance our understanding and conservation of Australia’s unique reptiles and amphibians
  • Accelerate fundamental research of reptile and amphibian genomics in areas that Australia is uniquely placed to make its mark on the world stage
  • Complement fundamental research with genomics to meet critical needs of conservation management and our unique reptile and amphibian biodiversity, as identified by society, government and industry
  • Build a community across Australian museums, Universities and other research providers, and government agencies to sustain the initiative beyond the life of the Bioplatforms investment
  • Increase awareness of the public and conservation managers of the diversity of Australian reptiles and amphibians and how genomics can aid in their conservation and management.

AusARG was initiated by Bioplatforms Australia in partnership with Australian State museums, universities, and government agencies.

For more information

Find the list of the Australian Amphibian and Reptile Genomics Initiative main contacts here

If you have any questions or are interesting in joining the AusARG collaboration, please contact the Project Manager