> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://isbm.savimbo.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://isbm.savimbo.com/baseline-assessment/baseline-biodiversity-optional.md).

# Baseline biodiversity (optional)

Data on biodiversity richness may not be available within ecosystem classification. Where it is available to a project it should be included. 

However, the ISBM does not require full biodiversity classification, only clear identification of indicator species that both the Indigenous people and global scientists recognize as distinct indicator species. 

Where possible projects must draw on publicly available sources to characterize species richness and endemic species for the following taxonomic groups: All identified species of trees, vascular plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, insects, mammals, fish, and fungi. 

A sample table for Putumayo, Colombia is provided in [Appendix D](/appendices/appendix-d-species-categorization-of-richness.md).


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