Why taxonomists and ecologists are not, but should be, carpooling?

Abstract

Traditionally, ecologists and taxonomists have conducted mostly separated research. Ecologists have been using the well-known species groups as their model organisms for practical reasons, whereas taxonomists have focused on poorly known species groups. Extensive collaboration between these research fields has unfortunately been a rarity. We argue that increased collaboration between ecologists and taxonomists yields benefits through several pathways. Firstly, it improves the scientific quality of both disciplines through deeper insight on the study organisms and increased feasibility of the collected data. Secondly, it improves the prospects of the scientists involved and opens up potential funding sources, helping to solve the taxonomic impediment. Finally, improved collaboration could balance ecological research towards more species-rich, functionally important groups. This would increase the quality and effectiveness of nature conservation and management plans positively affecting the sustainability of environmental policy making. These obvious benefits should be swiftly acknowledged by research institutions, science leaders and funding bodies. They should actively promote for strong collaborative efforts from the present and recruited staff representing both disciplines.