Putting the geo back into Biogeosciences

We increasingly recognize the diversity of biological systems, in terms of taxonomy, phylogeny and function, as well as the importance of biotic interactions in shaping them. However, the diversity of abiotic factors and interactions between biotic and abiotic diversity are still understudied, despite of Alexander from Humboldt’s advocacy over 200 years ago (Schrodt et al. 2019a). As such, we have lost sight of one of fundamental concepts of Biogeosciences: holistic integrative studies of patterns and processes across the Earth’s spheres.

In the face of accelerated anthropogenic and natural change of biotic and abiotic aspects, appreciation of the interaction diversity between all spheres of the Earth is urgently needed. Yet, to date, the vast majority of studies only account for the effect of climate and, potentially, soils on biodiversity, ignoring interactions (e.g. the effect of biodiversity on soils) and other aspects of geodiversity (the range, value and dynamics of geological, geomorphological, pedological and hydrological aspects and features of the Earth’s surface and subsurface). This applies to both, primary science and the science-policy interface.

I will give a brief introduction on the state-of-the-art in geodiversity – biodiversity interaction research, discuss the importance of incorporating the diversity of abiotic factors in biodiversity and conservation studies and indicate promising avenues for further research. This includes theoretical advancements, such as the recently introduced Essential Geodiversity Variables framework (Schrodt et al. 2019b), as well as practical matters, including remote sensing (Lausch et al. 2019) and modelling approaches suitable for expanding the geo- biodiversity interaction approach across the relevant spatial and temporal scales.

 

F Schrodt et al. (2019a) Challenges and opportunities for biogeography—What can we still learn from von Humboldt? Journal of Biogeography

 

F Schrodt et al. (2019b) To advance sustainable stewardship, we must document not only biodiversity but geodiversity. PNAS 116 (33): 16155 – 16158

 

A Lausch et al. (2019) Linking remote sensing and geodiversity and their traits relevant to biodiversity—part I: soil characteristics. Remote sensing 11 (20): 2356-2407