New paper published in Nature

Global study reveals widespread loss of genetic diversity - but conservation action offers hope

Two baby golden bandicoots (Isoodon auratus)—one of the species included in the meta-analysis—captured during population and genetic monitoring in Western Australia, which contributes to vital conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable species. Image credit: Judy Dunlop

A new global meta-analysis, recently published in Nature, reveals that genetic diversity—a key factor for species' adaptation and survival in changing environments—is declining worldwide. This loss has been linked to human activities such as habitat destruction, the spread of new diseases, and resource exploitation like hunting and logging.

The study, the most extensive of its kind, screened over 80,000 published articles to find 882 studies that measured genetic diversity over time. It found evidence of genetic diversity loss across terrestrial and marine ecosystems, but this was most severe for birds and mammals.

Despite this concerning trend, the research provides hope, indicating that targeted conservation measures show promise in mitigating and even reversing genetic diversity decline. Effective strategies include population supplementation (e.g., through translocations or restoring connectivity between populations), population control (e.g., to reduce competition and improve population growth rates), habitat restoration, and invasive species control.

“Global genetic diversity loss can be mitigated by conservation action if we are intentional and act now”

The findings stress the need for urgent conservation action to safeguard genetic diversity, which underpins species' resilience and long-term survival.

For full details, follow the links below to read the article in Nature and access the policy brief: