Functional diversity: a key aspect in the provision of ecosystem services

Abstract

Functional diversity is one of the crucial aspects of the functioning of ecosystems and the provision of ecosystem services. In this review paper, we analyze how biodiversity contributes to human well-being through the provision of goods and ecosystem services, and related aspects of ecological processes and their relationship with the functional diversity of ecosystems are presented. It aims to explain in a simple way, the concepts related to functional diversity, the importance of the functional groups and the role of functional traits of the species as a key element in the responses of organisms to environmental changes. Understanding the relationship between ecosystem processes, functional diversity of species and providing ecosystem services, allow better management of natural ecosystems and their biodiversity, enabling conservation and sustainable use of different types of services provided by ecosystems.

Modelling Species Richness and Functional Diversity in Tropical Dry Forests Using Multispectral Remotely Sensed and Topographic Data

“…FD is defined as the range, abundance, and relative distribution of the functional traits of organisms in a community [6]. In other words, FD refers to the variation of functional traits between organisms that influence individual fitness and ecosystem functioning [9]. Functional traits are biological (physiological, morphological, anatomical, biochemical, or behavioral) characteristics measurable at the individual level that affect the growth, reproduction, or survival of a species [10].…”