Table 2.
The SMART characteristics of three recently proposed indicators for genetic diversity that rely on proxies and DNA based studies.
| Indicator | Index for maintaining genetic diversity | Index for maintaining populations and their adaptations | Index for monitoring populations’ genetic diversity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specific—how are indicators quantitative | Quantifies the number of populations with Ne > 500 versus Ne < 500. | Quantifies the number or proportion of populations maintained. | Quantifies the number of populations with DNA based status and trends. |
| Measurable—where does data exist (including baseline from the past) | 10% of census size (Nc) is a reasonable proxy of Ne. Nc estimates exist for thousands of populations in the LPI, and RL assessments. Also, agencies, NGOs, and museums often hold data on Nc estimates. Scientific literature also has numerous Nc and Ne estimates. Ne estimates will increase rapidly as genomic data becomes widely affordable and accessible. | Data on the number of populations within species or proportion of populations remaining is available in existing databases (LPI, GBIF, museums, RL assessments, stock assessments and government reports). | Information on genetic status publications is available on scholarly databases or Google Scholar. Information on genetic data sets is available on data portals (GenBank, GEOME, Dryad; see Supplemental S2). Genetic experts can offer guidance on suitable data availability. |
| Achievable—what are feasible actions or policy levers | Support many large populations (Ne > 500) and baseline connectivity among populations. Action is taken to increase size or connectivity among populations above 500. | Protect all populations that remain now. It is achievable. Restore populations to baseline when possible. | Invest in research and knowledge sharing. The number of populations investigated genetically is rapidly increasing. |
| Relevant—what is the connection to genetic change and biodiversity conservation | With small Ne, rapid genetic erosion occurs and remaining diversity is at risk. | Populations often contain adaptations to local environments. Maintaining populations maintains genetic diversity. | Knowledge of genetic diversity informs conservation action, and supports indicators 1 and 2. |
| Time bound—deadlines | Stability by 2030, increasing by 2050. | Aim for no loss by 2030, restoration by 2050. | Capacity in place by 2030. |
Abbreviations: Ne, effective population size; LPI, Living Planet Index; RL, Red List.