Vague wording in the goal and target included three terms that were not well defined - “maintain genetic diversity,” “minimize genetic erosion,” and “safeguard genetic diversity.” “Maintain” may refer to preserving current status, e.g. no further loss, and “safeguarding” may refer to in situ and ex situ protection through gene banks and protected areas. We suggest that careful and defined terminology is vital in setting targets to ensure consistent, transparent and effective translation to national actions and measurement.