Using Conceptual Models to Understand Ecosystem Function and Impacts of Human Activities in Tropical Peat-swamp Forests

Abstract

Increased resource investment in conservation is generating greater appreciation of the importance of ecolog- ical monitoring programmes to assess the effectiveness of conservation interventions in achieving their stated goals. A key component for developing such a programme is an appropriate conceptual model of ecosystem function and the effects of human activities on this. Tropical peat- swamp forests are a particularly important ecosystem for reducing carbon emissions and biodiversity conservation. This is leading to increased investment in their protection and, consequently, an increased need for effective ecological monitoring programmes and conceptual models of ecosys- tem function on which to base these. Here, I adapt previous conceptual models of ecosystem function developed for terrestrial forests and other wetland ecosystems, to create a habitat-specific model for tropical peat-swamp forests. This provides a tool to guide thinking in developing ecological monitoring studies in this habitat and understanding (i) ecosystem processes and function, (ii) the impact of human activities on these, and (iii) subsequent impacts on ecosys- tem services. This is relevant for monitoring the effective- ness of conservation interventions with varying goals in tropical peat-swamp forest, including emission reductions; and highlights considerations relevant for conservation management and ecological monitoring in other wetland habitats.