The loss of genetic diversity exposes many species to a higher risk of extinction, making them more vulnerable to ongoing environmental changes. However, the good news is that effective strategies can be implemented to counteract this phenomenon, and we can all play a role in supporting them.

This is the key finding of a study conducted by a team of 57 scientists from 20 countries, who analysed over 80,000 scientific papers published in the last thirty years. Their research synthesises evidence of genetic diversity loss in 628 species (including animals, plants, fungi, and chromists) across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The study, published in the prestigious journal Nature (read the article), highlights a concerning decline in genetic variability across many species: a crucial factor for their resilience and ability to adapt to environmental changes.

Among the study’s authors is Chiara Manfrin, a zoologist and researcher at the University of Trieste’s Department of Life Sciences, who contributed to the analysis of genetic variability loss in aquatic species. ‘This was a meticulous process of data collection and filtering, as many studies did not meet the minimum requirements for genetic information and were therefore excluded from the dataset,’ explains Manfrin. ‘My role involved analysing the selected articles using a keyword-based approach.’

‘Each researcher,’ she continues, ‘contributed their dataset to a global collection of genetic data essential for assessing genetic diversity loss. Specifically, I focused on studies concerning aquatic fauna.’

The study revealed that genetic diversity loss is more pronounced in species facing significant environmental pressures. Habitat destruction, urban expansion, intensive agriculture, the introduction of new diseases, the effects of natural disasters such as wildfires and floods, and direct human activities (including hunting and deforestation) are among the primary drivers. Populations with reduced genetic variability are more vulnerable and less able to adapt to new environmental conditions, increasing their long-term extinction risk.

However, the research also shows that conservation strategies can not only mitigate genetic diversity loss but even promote its recovery. Protecting natural habitats and maintaining connections between populations enable genetic exchange between different groups, strengthening their resilience. Targeted restocking with individuals from genetically diverse populations has already yielded positive results in numerous conservation projects.

Advances in genetic monitoring technologies, such as DNA sequencing and advanced data analysis, are providing increasingly precise tools for understanding biodiversity trends and implementing targeted conservation efforts.

The study also emphasises the importance of everyday actions that can help preserve genetic diversity. Protecting biodiversity starts locally, for example, by planting native species in gardens to support habitat connectivity and provide resources for pollinators, choosing traditional agricultural varieties to maintain genetic richness in the food system, or collaborating with conservation groups to protect endangered species. Even small actions, such as avoiding the unintentional transport of plants, seeds, or soil to new areas to prevent the spread of pests and diseases, can contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation.

For a broader, public-oriented overview of the study, The Conversation has published an in-depth article (read the article) explaining the research findings and their implications for biodiversity conservation.