Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/O/S/2001/01257

Global biodiversity hotspots: evolution, ecology and extinction.

Principal Investigator:: Professor I Owens, University of Sheffield, Animal and Plant Sciences
Co-Investigator:: Dr P Bennett, University of Kent, Durrell Inst Conservation and Ecology
Co-Investigator:: Professor KJ Gaston, University of Exeter, Biosciences
Co-Investigator:: Professor T Blackburn, University College London, Genetics Evolution and Environment
Grant held at:: University of Sheffield, Animal and Plant Sciences

ENRIs:: Biodiversity
Science Topics:: Population Ecology; Conservation Ecology; Community Ecology

Abstract:: 'Biodiversity hotspots' are geographical areas that contain a disproportionately high proportion of biodiversity. Here we consider three types of hotspot: based on species-richness, endemism and extinction threat, respectively. Such hotspots pose many important questions for ecologists. Do particular climatic or topological conditions promote hotspots? Are hotspot-dwelling species unusual in terms of their ecology or life history? Do the same mechanisms determine hotspots in different biogeographic areas? Such questions have remained unanswered because effort has focussed on mapping hotspots, rather than understanding the mechanisms tat underpin their origin and maintenance. We propose to use massive new databases on the spatial distribution and biology of the world's birds to perform the first statistically rigorous study of the ecological and evolutionary basis of hotspots at a global level.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £152,502

Total - Staff	Total - T&S	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs
£91,425	£4,235	£14,786	£42,055

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