Current status of agricultural biodiversity conservation

Abstract

Agricultural biodiversity is an essential component of food security, the sustainability of production systems, and agriculture’s capacity to adapt to climate change. However, agricultural intensification, the expansion of monocultures, the replacement of local varieties, ecosystem degradation, and the loss of traditional knowledge have increased pressures on genetic resources and ecosystem services associated with agroecosystems. The objective of this article was to analyse the current status of agricultural biodiversity conservation, considering the main advances, strategies, limitations, and perspectives identified in the scientific and documentary literature. A narrative review was conducted based on scientific articles, technical reports, and institutional documents related to agrobiodiversity, genetic resources, in situ, ex situ, and on-farm conservation, agri-environmental policies, and sustainable agriculture. The results reveal progress in incorporating biodiversity into international agendas, strengthening germplasm banks, protecting plant genetic resources, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Nevertheless, challenges persist regarding genetic erosion, the fragmentation of conservation strategies, financial and institutional limitations, and insufficient participation by farmers and local communities. It is concluded that the effective conservation of agricultural biodiversity requires integrated approaches that articulate public policies, scientific research, territorial management, technological innovation, and traditional knowledge to strengthen the resilience, sustainability, and adaptive capacity of agri-food systems in the face of contemporary environmental challenges.