Ecologists at the School of Biological Sciences of The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have made valuable discoveries that could transform the conservation of two iconic cockatoo species: the Sulphur-crested cockatoos and the critically endangered Yellow-crested cockatoos – with only 2,000 individuals remaining in the wild for the latter.

Until now, no whole-genome research had been conducted on either species, which were identified solely by subtle morphological differences. Through two innovative studies, the team uncovered new genetic insights, reshaping our understanding of these species and offering fresh hope for their survival amid severe threats from habitat loss and illegal trapping. These findings, recently published in high-impact scientific journals Molecular Biology and Evolution, and Molecular Ecology, will be highly influential in guiding future conservation efforts.

In a paper published in SCIENCE CHINA Life Science, an international team of scientists provided a comprehensive overview of single-cell and spatial genomics. They review breakthroughs in single-cell multi-omics technologies, spatial genomics methods, and the computational strategies employed toward the analyses of single-cell atlas data. Additionally, they emphasize the progress in constructing cellular atlases and their clinical applications, particularly in the context of disease. Lastly, they discuss emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.