The rabbit is a keystone species in the Mediterranean ecosystem, meaning that its presence and abundance have a significant impact on the ecological balance. Despite being considered a pest in some areas, the rabbit is classified as an endangered species. Its importance goes beyond its own conservation, as many species depend on it for survival, including the Iberian lynx and the imperial eagle.

From our research group, we aim to contribute to the conservation of the wild rabbit using our expertise: metabolomics. If you are not familiar with this technique, we briefly explain what it involves below.

The analysis of the metabolome of over a hundred wild rabbit samples, obtained from various locations across the Iberian Peninsula, will allow us to study how factors such as localization, age, health status, and disease presence affect the metabolic profile of rabbits. Our goal is to identify biomarkers that will help us better understand their nutritional status, health, thermal stress, and the effects of climate change, among other factors.

With this approach, we not only aim to understand the biology of the wild rabbit but also to improve its conservation conditions. This will not only have a direct impact on this species but will also contribute to the preservation of the entire Mediterranean ecosystem, which depends on the health and stability of its keystone species.