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Phylogenetic diversity (PD) and biodiversity conservation: some bioinformatics challenges
Daniel P Faith1, Andrew M Baker
1The Australian Museum, 6 College St., Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia. danf@austmus.gov.au
Evolutionary Bioinformatics Online
|May 21, 2009
Summary
Phylogenetic diversity (PD) accurately measures biodiversity by incorporating deep evolutionary branches. This method aids conservation planning, especially when using DNA barcoding for cryptic taxa.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Conservation Science
Background:
- Biodiversity conservation relies on diversity measures to address information challenges.
- Phylogenetic diversity (PD) quantifies biodiversity as the minimum phylogenetic branch length needed to encompass a set of taxa.
- Recent studies confirm PD correctly incorporates deep phylogenetic branches, contrary to some claims.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the practical application of phylogenetic diversity (PD) in biodiversity conservation.
- To highlight the importance of PD in assessing taxa, particularly cryptic species, in stream ecosystems.
- To support the use of DNA barcoding in conservation planning by showcasing its alignment with phylogenetic patterns.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the established definition of phylogenetic diversity (PD) as the minimum total length of phylogenetic branches spanning a set of taxa.
- Applying PD assessments to macroinvertebrate taxa in streams of New South Wales, Australia.
- Analyzing molecular-based phylogenetic patterns, including the impact of local extinction on regional PD values.
Main Results:
- PD applications over the past decade demonstrate the accurate inclusion of shared deep branches.
- Case studies in Australian streams show that local extinction can increase the PD value of remaining sites due to unique deeper branches.
- Phylogenetic patterns support DNA barcoding for conservation planning, bypassing contentious species designations.
Conclusions:
- Phylogenetic diversity (PD) is a robust measure for biodiversity conservation, effectively integrating evolutionary history.
- DNA barcoding, when interpreted through a phylogenetic lens, offers valuable insights for conservation strategies, especially for cryptic taxa.
- Bioinformatics presents challenges in integrating diverse phylogenetic data and optimizing conservation plans with environmental and socio-economic factors.
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