Features in a copied layer are missing after deleting the same features from the reference layer in ArcGIS Pro

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, copies of a feature layer can be created from an existing layer. The copied layers uses the original layer as a reference layer. However, when deleting a feature from the reference layer, the feature is also deleted from the copied layer.

Cause

This is by design. When a copy of a feature layer is created, the copied layer shares the same features as the reference layer. When a feature is deleted from the reference layer, the same feature is deleted in the copied layer and vice versa.

Solution or Workaround

As a workaround, instead of making a copy the feature layer, export the feature as a new layer to the geodatabase.

1. In the Contents pane, right-click the layer, and navigate to Data > Export Features.
2. In the Feature Class to Feature Class geoprocessing pane, for Input Features, select the feature layer to be exported.
3. For Output Location, select the geodatabase used in the project.
4. For Output Feature Class, specify a name for the exported feature layer.
5. Click Run.