Addressing the Urgent Need for Biodiversity Preservation: A Fifth of European Red List Species Face Extinction Risk

In a comprehensive analysis of 14,669 threatened species across Europe, researchers have discovered that approximately one fifth of these species are at risk of extinction. This groundbreaking study, led by Axel Hochkirch from the Musée National d’Histoire Naturelle, Luxembourg, underscores the critical importance of biodiversity preservation in the face of evolving ecological challenges. The findings have been published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on November 8, 2023.

Key Findings

1. Land Use Changes and Agricultural Practices: [Image depicting land use changes and agricultural practices]

The analysis reaffirms that alterations in agricultural land use pose a significant threat to European biodiversity.
Loss of habitats due to these changes, along with overexploitation of biological resources, pollution, and residential/commercial development, intensifies the risks faced by numerous species.

2. Extinction Risk Across Taxa:

While vertebrates often take the spotlight in conservation discussions, the study reveals that invertebrates, critical contributors to ecosystem functioning, are disproportionately threatened.
Invertebrates: 24 percent of invertebrates face extinction risk.
Vertebrates: 18 percent of vertebrates face extinction risk.
Plants: 27 percent of plants face extinction risk.

3. Implications for Biodiversity Loss Mitigation: [Image symbolizing biodiversity loss mitigation efforts]

The research serves as a baseline for monitoring progress in efforts to counter biodiversity loss.
It emphasizes the need for continued action, investment, and research to address the myriad threats faced by these species.

4. Food Security and Wellbeing:

Biodiversity, as highlighted by the authors, is not merely an ecological concern but an essential component of food security, wealth generation, and the future wellbeing of European populations.

Call to Action

In light of these findings, the authors urge intensified efforts, investments, and strategic actions to counter the challenges outlined. Biodiversity, a cornerstone of ecological resilience, demands immediate attention to secure a sustainable future.

Funding: The European Commission (EC) has funded all European Red List projects, with co-funding from various entities supporting specific assessments. The funders played no role in data collection, analysis, or manuscript preparation but determined the taxa assessed.