Developing Biodiversity Observation Networks in Latin America with Essential Biodiversity Variables: A Symposium

Biodiversity change and loss is occurring at unprecedented rates but our capacity to monitor those changes and provide up-to-date information to decision-makers in Latin America is limited. Biodiversity observation efforts do exist in the region, yet they suffer from inadequate integration, tend to remain within the academic community and are disconnected from policy.

The goal of this symposium is to bring together biodiversity experts to develop a common framework for the establishment of a network of harmonized and efficient national observation systems, informing effective conservation and sustainable development policy in Latin America. Accessible, actionable information on biodiversity status and trends is urgently required to identify the greatest threats, characterize and prioritize appropriate responses, and measure the success of conservation and management interventions.

Schedule 

9:00 Opening words - Alberto Díaz-Cayeros, CLAS Director

           Goals of symposium - Rodolfo Dirzo and Henrique Pereira

9:20 Using narratives to identify Essential Biodiversity Variables - Henrique Pereira

9:40 The EBV conceptual framework – fundamental underpinnings and challenges - Simon Ferrier

10:05 Vision for a conceptual framework for EBVs using biological invasion as exemplar - Melodie McGeoch

10:30 Coffee break

10:45 Developing the Species Population EBVs - Walter Jetz 

11:10 From EBVs to Ecosystem Service Monitoring - Dan Karp

11:35 Using citizen scientists to develop EBVs - Scott Loarie

12:00 Lunch

1:15 Current understanding of Latin American Biodiversity: A plant ecologist perspective - Rodolfo Dirzo

1:40 An overview of classes of data available for BONs in Latin America, with a special focus on Mexico - Jorge Soberón (& Town Peterson)

2:05 From camera traps to EBVs: lessons from the TEAM network - Jorge Ahumada

2:30 First steps in developing Brazil's BON - Eduardo Dalcin

3:05 Coffee break

3:25 Developing the Colombia BON - Maria Cecilia Londono

3:50 Marine Biodiversity Observation Networks: Pole-to-Pole in the Americas - Francisco Chavez & Frank Muller-Karger

4:15 Discussion

5:00 Adjourn

Special thanks to the Tinker Foundation for their generous support to organize this symposium.