Global patterns of evolutionary distinct and globally endangered amphibians and mammals.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Conservation of phylogenetic diversity allows maximising evolutionary information preserved within fauna and flora. The "EDGE of Existence" programme is the first institutional conservation initiative that prioritises species based on phylogenetic information. Species are ranked in two ways: one according to their evolutionary distinctiveness (ED) and second, by including IUCN extinction status, their evolutionary distinctiveness and global endangerment (EDGE). Here, we describe the global patterns in the spatial distribution of priority ED and EDGE species, in order to identify conservation areas for mammalian and amphibian communities. In addition, we investigate whether environmental conditions can predict the observed spatial pattern in ED and EDGE globally.

Metho

SUBMITTER: Safi K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3655148 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature