Overcoming biotic homogenization in ecological restoration

Area of Science:

• Ecological restoration
• Conservation biology
• Biodiversity studies

Background:

• Restored landscapes often exhibit lower regional (gamma) diversity compared to reference sites.
• Common restoration practices may inadvertently promote biotic homogenization by selecting for widespread, easily-grown species.
• These practices can also reduce genetic diversity within reintroduced populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and discuss approaches for counteracting biotic homogenization in ecological restoration.
• To propose strategies for increasing regional diversity in restored ecosystems.
• To suggest policy changes that support the enhancement of regional diversity.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing evidence on regional diversity in restored landscapes.
• Discussion of ecological and genetic approaches to enhance species and genetic diversity.
• Analysis of potential policy interventions to support biodiversity in restoration.

Main Results:

• Common restoration practices lead to reduced regional diversity and biotic homogenization.
• Reintroduction of locally adapted species and genetic material can increase diversity.
• Introduction of higher trophic levels can restore ecosystem interactions and heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

• Ecological restoration can inadvertently decrease biodiversity; active strategies are needed to counteract this.
• Reintroduction of diverse species and genetic material, alongside policy changes, is crucial for enhancing regional diversity.
• Restoration efforts must move beyond favoring common species to actively promote ecological complexity and heterogeneity.