Revisiting the carbon-biodiversity connection

Abstract

Ecosystem studies often consider the co-benefits of biodiversity and carbon sequestration, but these carbon-biodiversity links can be complex and multifaceted. Recent findings in forest ecosystems emphasize the importance of looking beyond single trophic levels and the more visible, above-ground portions to consider the full range of relationships between all ecosystem components when evaluating carbon sequestration potential. Simple engineered solutions to carbon storage based on monocultures that fail to consider all costs and benefits may be deceiving and lead to inappropriate management practices. Regenerating natural ecosystems may best enhance the co-benefits of carbon sequestration and biodiversity.

Keywords: Global Biodiversity Monitoring System; biodiversity; biological carbon sequestration; ecosystem function; forest regeneration; remote sensing; species richness; trophic levels.