Abstract Detail

Greater Caribbean Biodiversity and its Eco-physiology: Sustainability or degradation in next 50 years?

Stevenson, Dennis [1].

Biological diversity in the Caribbean Islands: How much do we know to save it?

As to be expected, endemism is high in the Caribbean in all groups ranging from 50% for plants to 100% for Amphibians. While the origin of this diversity is still not clear with competing hypotheses generating a gap in our knowledge as to how and why. A solid foundation for conservation through habitat protection combined with risk assessments for each species are now available to aid the preservation of these species and to militate against potential extinctions. However, many of these reserves lack formal management plans, and are too small to effectively conserve their biodiversity and what may be most needed is to understand the biology of the species and their interaction with other species and their place in the ecosystem. Furthermore, more attention to preventing the establishment of invasive species is needed as well as the education of the next generation to the necessity and concepts of biodiversity and its well being as influencing human endeavors.

Broader Impacts:

1 - THE NY BOTANICAL GARDEN, 2900 SOUTHERN BLVD, BRONX, NY, 10458-5126, USA, 718/817-8632

Keywords:
Caribbean
education
invasive species.

Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: SY11
Location: Rosedown/Riverside Hilton
Date: Wednesday, July 31st, 2013
Time: 2:45 PM
Number: SY11003
Abstract ID:282
Candidate for Awards:None