The Metrics
How We Measure Biodiversity
At EcoNexus, we believe that what gets measured, gets protected.
To unlock investment and drive conservation action, we use cutting-edge yet accessible metrics that turn biodiversity into measurable, meaningful numbers. Two core metrics we focus on : Mean Species Abundance (MSA) and Functional Diversity
What is MSA?
Mean Species Abundance measures how intact an ecosystem is compared to its natural, undisturbed state. It tells us how much of the original biodiversity remains in a given area. In simple terms: •100% MSA = Ecosystem is fully healthy, like untouched rainforest. •0% MSA = Ecosystem is completely degraded, like a paved parking lot. •Most real-world landscapes fall somewhere in between. Why MSA matters: MSA provides a single, easy-to-understand number that reflects complex changes in species populations due to human activities like deforestation, pollution, or overfishing. It’s also recognized globally (including by the UN) as a powerful indicator for tracking biodiversity loss and recovery.
What is Functional Diversity?
While MSA tells us “how much” life remains, Functional Diversity tells us “how well” the ecosystem works. In simple terms: Functional Diversity measures the variety of biological traits in an ecosystem — such as how different species contribute to pollination, water purification, soil formation, and more. Think of it like a team: •A sports team where every player has different skills (goalkeeper, striker, defender) is stronger than a team full of only strikers. •In nature, an ecosystem with a diverse set of functional traits is more resilient to shocks like droughts, fires, or disease. Why Functional Diversity matters: Healthy ecosystems don’t just have many species — they have species that play different roles, keeping the system balanced, resilient, and productive. Measuring Functional Diversity helps EcoNexus identify ecosystems that are not just rich in species, but also capable of adapting and thriving in a changing world.
Why These Metrics?
Based on peer-reviewed science to ensure rigor and trust.
Translate ecosystem health into numbers for decision-makers.
Aligns with the Global Biodiversity Framework and SDGs.
