Comparisons of biodiversity metrics reveal dissimilarities in biodiversity hotspot identification

Abstract

As global climate change impacts ecosystems, establishing conservation priorities is crucial for managing threatened areas with limited resources. Biodiversity hotspots, typically defined by high degrees of endemism, play a key role in conservation. However, traditional hotspots may not capture the full extent of biodiversity, including functional and phylogenetic biodiversity or biodiversity incorporating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). This study compares biodiversity hotspots identified by 17 diversity indices in the Pacific Northwest, USA, using data from 318 plant species. We consider species richness, phylogenetic diversity, functional diversity, and TEK-based diversity. Using simulated plant communities, we assess whether indices identify the same biodiversity hotspots. We find biodiversity metrics form two groups based on shared hotspot identification, suggesting single metrics may overlook other forms of biodiversity. Interestingly, TEK metrics cluster with some traditional indices, including species richness. This work offers new insights on integrating biodiversity measures for discerning regional biodiversity hotspots and conservation priorities.