Abstract
AbstractThe Tree of Life—phylogeny—provides a powerful tool for understanding the processes regulating life's diversity. Conserving the branches on the Tree of Life might also have practical benefits. Using a comprehensive phylogeny of southern African woody trees and shrubs, and structural equation modeling, we show that human population density correlates closely with not only the richness of woody plants in a region but also their evolutionary relatedness. Further, we demonstrate that more phylogenetically diverse species assemblages support a greater diversity of ecosystem goods and services. Our results suggest that people in Africa may gain material benefits from inhabiting regions that support high phylogenetic diversity of woody plants. However, the correlation between human population and woody plant diversity creates a tension between people and biodiversity, which could threaten the contributions to people provided by intact and phylogenetically diverse ecosystems.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.