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Addressing priority questions of conservation science with palaeontological data
Wolfgang Kiessling1, Nussaïbah B Raja1, Vanessa Julie Roden1
1GeoZentrum Nordbayern, Department of Geography and Geosciences, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Loewenichstr. 28, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
Summary
Palaeontology can inform conservation biology by answering key ecological questions, especially regarding climate change and marine ecosystems. Future collaboration is recommended, integrating geohistorical data into conservation science.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Palaeontology
Background:
- Ecology is central to conservation biology, yet palaeontology is underutilized.
- Conservation palaeobiology aims to integrate fossil data, but may be limited by its focus on historical baselines.
- Geohistorical data offers untapped potential for conservation science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the potential of palaeontological data to answer priority conservation questions.
- To evaluate the perceptions of scientists regarding the utility of palaeontology in conservation.
- To identify key areas for future interdisciplinary collaboration.
Main Methods:
- Statistical assessment of survey data from conservation biologists and palaeontologists.
- Analysis of perceived relevance and addressability of conservation questions using palaeontological data.
Main Results:
- Conservation biologists and early-career scientists are more optimistic about palaeontology's conservation contributions than experienced palaeontologists.
- Questions concerning climate change and marine ecosystems are considered most amenable to palaeontological data.
- These areas align with ecologists' priorities and current research efforts.
Conclusions:
- Palaeontology holds significant, yet under-recognized, potential to inform conservation science.
- Climate change and marine ecosystem research are prime areas for integrating palaeontological insights.
- Enhanced collaboration between palaeontologists and conservationists is crucial for advancing conservation efforts.
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