Gibbons are small, arboreal apes that play a critical role in tropical biodiversity and ecosystem ecology. However, nearly all species of gibbons are threatened by habitat loss, illegal trade, hunting, and other human activities. Long-term poor understanding of their genetics and evolution undermines effective conservation efforts. In this study, we analyse comparative population genomic data of four Nomascus species. Our results reveal strong genetic differentiation and gene flow among Nomascus species. Additionally, we identify genomic features that are potentially related to natural selection linked to vocalization, fructose metabolism, motor balance, and body size, consistent with the unique phenotype and adaptability of gibbons. Inbreeding, coupled with population declines due to climate change and historical human activities, leads to reduced genetic diversity and the accumulation of deleterious variations that likely affect cardiovascular disease and the reproductive potential of gibbons and further reduce their fitness, highlighting the urgent need for effective conservation strategies.

Gibbons

Genetic diversity

Population history

Adaptive evolution

Conservation

© 2025 The Authors. Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Genetics Society of China. Published by Elsevier Limited and Science Press.