TitleGlobal Commitments to Conserving and Monitoring Genetic Diversity Are Now Necessary and Feasible.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2021
AuthorsHoban S, Bruford MW, W Funk C, Galbusera P, M Griffith P, Grueber CE, Heuertz M, Hunter ME, Hvilsom C, Stroil BKalamujic, Kershaw F, Khoury CK, Laikre L, Lopes-Fernandes M, MacDonald AJ, Mergeay J, Meek M, Mittan C, Mukassabi TA, O'Brien D, Ogden R, Palma-Silva C, Ramakrishnan U, Segelbacher G, Shaw RE, Sjögren-Gulve P, Veličković N, Vernesi C
JournalBioscience
Volume71
Issue9
Pagination964-976
Date Published2021 Sep
ISSN0006-3568
Abstract

Global conservation policy and action have largely neglected protecting and monitoring genetic diversity-one of the three main pillars of biodiversity. Genetic diversity (diversity within species) underlies species' adaptation and survival, ecosystem resilience, and societal innovation. The low priority given to genetic diversity has largely been due to knowledge gaps in key areas, including the importance of genetic diversity and the trends in genetic diversity change; the perceived high expense and low availability and the scattered nature of genetic data; and complicated concepts and information that are inaccessible to policymakers. However, numerous recent advances in knowledge, technology, databases, practice, and capacity have now set the stage for better integration of genetic diversity in policy instruments and conservation efforts. We review these developments and explore how they can support improved consideration of genetic diversity in global conservation policy commitments and enable countries to monitor, report on, and take action to maintain or restore genetic diversity.

DOI10.1093/biosci/biab054
Alternate JournalBioscience
PubMed ID34475806
PubMed Central IDPMC8407967