Integrating Disciplines, Perspectives, and People: Insights from Seascape Genomics

Seascape genomics has rapidly evolved into an integrative field, merging genomics, oceanography, ecology, climate science, and computational modeling to assess the mechanisms that shape marine biodiversity distribution and adaptation. This review traces the evolution of seascape genomics from its roots in population genetics to an interdisciplinary and increasingly integrative science that supports marine management and conservation. This systematic synthesis of 93 empirical studies published between 2006 and 2025 highlights a methodological and international collaboration expansion within seascape genomic studies, while also exposing persistent inequities in geographic representation and gender diversity. Seascape genomics is characterized by a high proportion of women in lead-author roles, signaling a more inclusive trajectory than many related genomic disciplines, even as gender imbalances persist in senior last-author positions. While most studies achieved full methodological and analytical integration, only a few generate decision-support tools for conservation and climate adaptation, but still lack explicit participatory frameworks and stakeholder engagement. The continued development of seascape genomics depends on expanding beyond analytical integration to incorporate participatory, inclusive, and co-designed research practices. Advancing transdisciplinary literacy, equitable leadership and participation, especially in low-and-middle-income countries, and open data infrastructures will be key to realizing the full potential of seascape genomics as a decision-support science and a model for integrative ocean research.