Elevational patterns of plant species richness and phylogenetic diversity in a Mediterranean island

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ppees.2024.125815
• Publication Date: 2024-08-30T07:02:06Z
• Authors: Michele Di Musciano; Giacomo Calvia; Alessandro Ruggero; Emmanuele Farris; Lorenzo Ricci; Anna Rita Frattaroli; Simonetta Bagella
• Keywords: Phylogenetic diversity

Understanding the abiotic factors influencing biodiversity patterns on Earth is a crucial task for conservation scientists.At regional level, meso-climate factors, primarily associated with elevational gradients, are of great importance.However, disentangling these can be challenging due to influence other variables, such as geological substrata.To address this issue and better understand it essential study geologically homogeneous terrains, particularly in Mediterranean islands where research lacking.In study, we investigated distribution plant species richness along gradient Limbara massif, which consists predominantly granite rocks ranks third-highest peak Sardinia at 1359 m a.s.l.We employed generalized linear models analyze patterns, considering various including all species, functional groups categorized by Raunkiaer life forms, chorological alien phylogenetic diversity.Our findings revealed hump-shaped model gradient, lower elevations exhibiting highest richness.Additionally, endemic increased higher elevations, while were found elevations.These results indicate that massif possesses significant composition, likely reflecting unique evolutionary history.Furthermore, emphasize importance published floras valuable sources data studies.