FunAndes - A functional trait database of Andean plants

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Botany
• Biodiversity Science

Background:

• The Andes are a global biodiversity hotspot with significant ecological importance.
• Functional trait data is crucial for understanding plant adaptations and ecosystem functioning.
• Existing trait databases have limited coverage for the unique Andean flora.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the FunAndes database, a comprehensive compilation of functional trait data for Andean plants.
• To provide open-access data for ecological research in the Andes.
• To facilitate comparative studies with global trait datasets like TRY.

Main Methods:

• Compiled functional trait data for 2,694 Andean plant taxa across six countries.
• Included 24 plant-morphological traits (e.g., growth form, leaf, stem, wood traits).
• Integrated geographic metadata (coordinates, elevation) and aligned with TRY database standards.

Main Results:

• The FunAndes database contains 105,466 trait entries.
• Data covers species or individual-level measurements for 24 functional traits.
• The database is available open access via FIGSHARE and will be integrated into the TRY database.

Conclusions:

• FunAndes provides a valuable, standardized resource for studying Andean plant functional traits.
• Open access to this data will advance ecological research in one of the world's most species-rich regions.
• The database facilitates integration with global trait data, enabling broader ecological insights.