As the world remains in the grips of climate change, how is  the preservation of animals and plant life impacted?

According to a new analysis of 628 species, genetic diversity in plants, animal and fungi species has seen a downward turn worldwide.

The study revealed a decrease in two thirds of the analysed populations, but also highlighted the success conservation strategies have shown in preserving genetic diversity and curbing loss.

The study’s lead researcher, Associate Professor, Catherine Grueber from the University of Sydney, says “there is no getting around the fact that biodiversity is declining across the globe – but there are glimmers of hope.”

Image: Image: Colleen Sims – WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, Attractions

Produced By: Emma Wotzke

Featured In Story: Dr Robyn Shaw – Co-first Author, research fellow at University of Canberra Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics , and

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 30 January 2025