Desert and semi-arid, Forests, Research summaries, Restoration

Phylogenetic distance controls plant growth during early restoration of a semi-arid riparian forest

Leonardo H. Teixeira and colleagues share their latest research investigating the influence of species richness and phylogenetic relatedness during early restoration of a riparian forest in north-eastern Brazil. Restoration projects offer the opportunity to locally assess the effects of plant diversity on the assembly and functioning of restored ecosystems. In semi-arid areas of north-eastern Brazil, the extremely harsh environmental conditions are limiting plant establishment from … Continue reading Phylogenetic distance controls plant growth during early restoration of a semi-arid riparian forest

AER | ESEFebruary 21, 2023February 20, 20231 Comment

Agriculture, Invasive species, Research summaries

Harnessing drainage canals for biodiversity conservation

A new paper led by Csaba Tölgyesi from the University of Szeged, Hungary, shows that drainage canals can be harnessed for biodiversity conservation in desiccated, heavily transformed regions by reconciling the interests of opposing stakeholders. Drainage and subsequent land cultivation have been a major threat to global wetland ecosystems for centuries. In Europe, most lowland fens have been drained; approximately 25% of the arable land … Continue reading Harnessing drainage canals for biodiversity conservation