Toward a set of essential biodiversity variables for assessing change in mountains globally

DOI
Publisher DOI
Abstract
Mountain regions harbor unique and rich biodiversity, forming an important part of our global life support system. This rich biodiversity underpins the ecological intactness and functioning of mountain ecosystems, which are imperative for the provision of key ecosystem services. A considerable amount of data are required to assess ecological intactness and ecosystem functioning and, given the profound anthropogenic pressures many mountain regions are being subjected to, are urgently needed. However, data on mountain biodiversity remain lacking. The essential biodiversity variables (EBVs) framework can help focus efforts related to detecting, investigating, predicting, and managing global biodiversity change, but has not yet been considered in the context of mountains. Here, we review key biological processes and physical phenomena that strongly influence mountain biodiversity and ecosystems and elucidate their associations with potential mountain EBVs. We identify seven EBVs of highest relevance for tracking and understanding the most critical drivers and responses of mountain biodiversity change. If they are implemented, the selected EBVs will contribute useful information to inform management and policy interventions seeking to halt mountain biodiversity loss and maintain functional mountain ecosystems.
Date Issued
2024
Publication Type
Article
Subject(s)
Language(s)
en
Author(s)
Schmeller, Dirk S
Urbach, Davnah
Alexander, Jake
Jetz, Walter
Mills, Robert T E
Notornicola, Claudia
Palazzi, Elisa
Pauli, Harald
Randin, Christophe
Rosbakh, Sergey
Sayre, Roger
Tehrani, Nasrin Amini
Verbiest, William W M
Walker, Tom W N
Wipf, Sonja
Additional Credits
Journal
Bioscience
Publisher
Oxford University Press
ISSN
0006-3568
Project(s)
Access(Rights)
open.access
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