Developing a genetic diversity monitoring program – What do the stake-holders say?

Abstract

Genetic diversity is a fundamental component of biodiversity and its conservation is considered key to ensure the long-term survival of species. The importance of safeguarding genetic diversity is reflected in Aichi target 13 of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which calls for the maintenance of genetic diversity and for strategies preventing further losses by 2020. However, no country is systematically monitoring the levels of genetic diversity in natural populations of wild species to date. Even Switzerland, who included genetic diversity in its national biodiversity strategy, only mon- itors species and landscape diversity. To explore the circumstances of implementing a genetic diversity monitoring program in Switzerland, we carried out a stakeholder analysis in the course of a feasibility study on genetic monitoring. We collected the data through expert interviews and an online survey. Based on this, we present the opinions and needs of different Swiss stakeholders regarding a nation- wide genetic monitoring program for populations of wild species. Swiss stakeholders are overall aware of the lack of evidence regarding the status of genetic diversity in populations and species. Accordingly, a majority is interested in the development of a monitoring program and see opportunities to apply it in their work. Nevertheless, some stakeholders express concerns, such as limited resources of regional authorities and the fear that results may not be applied in practice. We propose to consider our findings in the future development of monitoring programs, which should be globally implemented at national levels in forthcoming years. Transparent communication about possibilities and limitations of a monitor- ing program and the involvement of concerned stakeholders might increase its acceptance.