Biodiversity assessment

Biodiversity assessment is a scientific field that analyzes the variety of life at different levels of biological organization (genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity) and ecological organization (diversity in time and space). It is a fundamental discipline for understanding the health of our planet and for developing conservation strategies. Through the use of mathematical and statistical methods, synthetic indices are produced, such as species richness or the Shannon-Wiener diversity index, along with comparisons between temporal and spatial scales (alpha, beta, and gamma diversity), and other quantitative tools that enable objective evaluations. Research in this field at the BIGEA Department focuses on: I) Assessing and monitoring the status of specific habitats, ecosystems, or geographic regions; ii) Identifying high-value areas or areas at risk of biodiversity loss; iii) Analyzing the effects of human activities on biodiversity in various terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Beyond its theoretical value, the quantification of biodiversity is an essential pillar for the sustainable management of natural resources and for the protection of life on Earth.