Panbiogeography and the amateur naturalist with reference to conservation implications

Abstract

The minimal-spanning-tree as a method of plotting dispersal in panbiogeographic methodology is a useful tool for the general naturalist or recreational biologist, as it enables observations of plant or animal distributions to be associated with the geological processes of an area in a disciplined but convenient way. This is achieved by plotting the known distribution of the taxa, using the current taxonomy, on a map and connecting these points by the shortest-distance tree. Interpretations arrived at by this methodology not only provide a framework for understanding of evolutionary processes but they stress the dynamics of the geological and biological systems. Panbiogeography emphasises the importance of biological communities and the significance of these areas at a regional or national level. This type of area recognition aids conservation advocates, as it helps to set priorities of areas identified as needing protection. Inland saline areas of Central Otagoare discussed by way of an example. This approach produces novel predictions about these areas that aid the interpretation of their conservation status. Panbiogeography highlights the need to advocate conservation of restricted species not only in strategic areas but throughout their natural range. Panbiogeography, by stressing the importance of the actual distribution of taxa is therefore useful in the Protected Natural Areas Programme as it enables the significance of the ecological district to be effectively assessed. Transfers of birds, reptiles, and insects are discussed in the context of panbiogeography and some of the dangers are pointed out of placing species on island refuges where they may never have been.