Paradox Between Species Diversity and Conservation

Abstract

One way to draw attention to an area regarding conservation is to declare it as an Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve (RBMA). In this article, we analyzed attributes related to different forest remnants, including the only RBMA of Santa Catarina state (Brazil), a modified old-growth Subtropical Atlantic Forest remnant. We brought evidences that patterns of distribution of species abundance and species diversity are influenced by highly dominant species. We found a relevant proportion of endemic tree/shrub species and three endangered species. These findings demonstrate the relevant biodiversity of the Subtropical Atlantic Forest of Santa Catarina. The diversity profiles of the RBMA and other areas overlapped. This finding, which has an important conservational implication that the tree species diversity in these areas is similar. Therefore, we concluded that the areas considered in our study deserve attention regarding biological conservation. New priority areas for conservation are necessary, and the esta...