The State of Biological Research in Forest Canopies: Colombia as a Case Study for Megadiverse Tropical Countries DOI
David L. Anderson, Julián Lozano‐Flórez, Sandra Patrícia Osorio Galeano

et al.

Austral Ecology, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 50(5)

Published: May 1, 2025

ABSTRACT Forests are a critical interface between Earth's terrestrial biomass and the atmosphere that play pivotal role in biodiversity conservation ecosystem services provision. Despite their importance, study of forest canopies has been hindered by accessibility challenges. Because canopy ecology inadequately sampled from ground, historic dependence on ground‐based data limits our understanding biology at local regional scales, which turn can obstruct or challenge setting priorities. This is particularly true for tropical countries with highest levels degradation. We evaluate published research outputs Colombia, megadiverse country faces escalating deforestation rates, may serve as model high mounting Through comprehensive literature review spanning 1974–2022, we assessed taxonomic groups, objectives, methodological approaches, geographical distribution research. Our findings reveal Colombia skewed its focus towards vascular plants geographic coverage greatest Andes. Moreover, most studies treated covariate rather than primary objective, thereby limiting possible inferences into biodiversity. results offer call to action increase number emphasising need increased representation, capacity‐building, interdisciplinary collaboration, involvement non‐academic stakeholders. As Global South challenges, processes will be essential informed sustainable management strategies biologically diverse nations. conclude proposing four lessons advance countries.

Language: Английский

The State of Biological Research in Forest Canopies: Colombia as a Case Study for Megadiverse Tropical Countries DOI
David L. Anderson, Julián Lozano‐Flórez, Sandra Patrícia Osorio Galeano

et al.

Austral Ecology, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 50(5)

Published: May 1, 2025

ABSTRACT Forests are a critical interface between Earth's terrestrial biomass and the atmosphere that play pivotal role in biodiversity conservation ecosystem services provision. Despite their importance, study of forest canopies has been hindered by accessibility challenges. Because canopy ecology inadequately sampled from ground, historic dependence on ground‐based data limits our understanding biology at local regional scales, which turn can obstruct or challenge setting priorities. This is particularly true for tropical countries with highest levels degradation. We evaluate published research outputs Colombia, megadiverse country faces escalating deforestation rates, may serve as model high mounting Through comprehensive literature review spanning 1974–2022, we assessed taxonomic groups, objectives, methodological approaches, geographical distribution research. Our findings reveal Colombia skewed its focus towards vascular plants geographic coverage greatest Andes. Moreover, most studies treated covariate rather than primary objective, thereby limiting possible inferences into biodiversity. results offer call to action increase number emphasising need increased representation, capacity‐building, interdisciplinary collaboration, involvement non‐academic stakeholders. As Global South challenges, processes will be essential informed sustainable management strategies biologically diverse nations. conclude proposing four lessons advance countries.

Language: Английский

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