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Do non-native species contribute to biodiversity?

  • Schlaepfer MA Institute of Environmental Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
  • 2018-04-18
Published in:
  • PLoS biology. - 2018
Animals
Biodiversity
Conservation of Natural Resources
Ecosystem
Humans
Introduced Species
Plants
Population Dynamics
English The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) emphasises the role of biodiversity in delivering benefits essential for all people and, as a result, seeks to safeguard all life-forms. The indices that are used to measure progress towards international conservation and sustainability goals, however, focus solely on the 'native' component of biodiversity. A subset of non-native species can cause undesirable economic, social, or biological effects. But non-native species also contribute to regional biodiversity (species richness and biotic interactions) and ecosystem services. In some regions and cities, non-native species make up more than half of all species. Currently, the contributions of these species to biodiversity and ecosystem services are overlooked. Here, I argue that biodiversity and sustainability indices should include all species. This is not only consistent with definitions of biodiversity but also will promote the idea that long-term, sustainable, human well-being is intricately tied to benefits derived from nature.
Language
  • English
Open access status
gold
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Persistent URL
https://sonar.ch/global/documents/46554
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