Farmland biodiversity monitoring in Europe: Germany

<jats:p>Germany lacks a standardised and coordinated farmland biodiversity monitoring framework. However, several independent and heterogeneous programmes generate datasets for farmland-related biodiversity assessments. These programmes have limitations, including limited taxonomic coverage, lack of long-term trends, and insufficient data on agricultural land use/management, affecting the early detection of declining ecosystem conditions. MonViA, launched in 2019, is a nationwide, representative, and science-based framework that addresses key gaps in farmland biodiversity monitoring, aiming to develop monitoring concepts and indicators for agri-environmental policy for Germany. MonViA complements existing monitoring programmes with its farmland focus, national-level indicators on habitat, species, and genetic diversity, and modular design. The chapter outlines key steps towards an integrated farmland biodiversity monitoring in Germany through improved survey designs, novel survey methods, and advancements in data management, access, and integration. Strengthening farmland biodiversity monitoring and integrating it into policy and practice is urgently needed for supporting effective conservation and land-management decisions.</jats:p>