Do non-native species contribute to biodiversity?

PLoS Biol. 2018 Apr 17;16(4):e2005568. doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2005568. eCollection 2018 Apr.

Abstract

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) emphasises the role of biodiversity in delivering benefits essential for all people and, as a result, seeks to safeguard all life-forms. The indices that are used to measure progress towards international conservation and sustainability goals, however, focus solely on the 'native' component of biodiversity. A subset of non-native species can cause undesirable economic, social, or biological effects. But non-native species also contribute to regional biodiversity (species richness and biotic interactions) and ecosystem services. In some regions and cities, non-native species make up more than half of all species. Currently, the contributions of these species to biodiversity and ecosystem services are overlooked. Here, I argue that biodiversity and sustainability indices should include all species. This is not only consistent with definitions of biodiversity but also will promote the idea that long-term, sustainable, human well-being is intricately tied to benefits derived from nature.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biodiversity*
  • Conservation of Natural Resources / methods*
  • Ecosystem
  • Humans
  • Introduced Species / trends*
  • Plants
  • Population Dynamics / statistics & numerical data

Grants and funding

The author received no specific funding for this work.