Current rates of extinction are unprecedented in human history. The fossil record and newer molecular phylogenies illuminate historical patterns of speciation and extinction. They reveal both spectacular radiations and the characteristic features of mass extinction events in our geological past. The IUCN Red List provides insight into present-day species declines. There is emerging synthesis that species at risk are nonrandomly distributed across space and phylogeny. This pattern may be explained by geographical variation in driver intensity and species differential sensitivities. However, traits that confer resistance to one global change driver may increase susceptibility to a different driver. A complete understanding of extinction risk requires consideration of the interaction between extinction drivers, ecological traits, and species' evolutionary histories.
1.Univ British Columbia, Biodivers Res Ctr, Dept Bot, 2212 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada 2.Univ British Columbia, Biodivers Res Ctr, Dept Forest Sci, 2212 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada 3.Univ British Columbia, Biodivers Res Ctr, Dept Conservat Sci, 2212 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
Recommended Citation:
Davies, T. Jonathan. The macroecology and macroevolution of plant species at risk[J]. NEW PHYTOLOGIST,2019-01-01,222(2):708-713