Too much diversity—Multiple definitions of geodiversity hinder its potential in biodiversity research

• DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13843
• Publication Date: 2024-04-05T13:49:37Z
• Authors: Tuija Maliniemi; Helena Tukiainen; Jan Hjort; Maija Toivanen; Grant Vernham; Joseph J. Bailey; Oliver Baines; Lucy Benniston; José Brilha; Richard Field; Nathan Fox; Murray Gray; John‐Arvid Grytnes; Karoliina Huusko; Julia Kemppinen; Paulo Pereira; Henriikka Salminen; Franziska Schrodt; Laura Turner; Janne Alahuhta
• Keywords: Abiotic diversity; 0106 biological sciences; Ciências Naturais::Ciências da Terra e do Ambiente; abiotic diversity; Environmental heterogeneity; definition of geodiversity; environmental heterogeneity; Definition of geodiversity; 01 natural sciences; Geodiversity terminology; conserving nature's stage; Conservation strategies; biodiversity patterns; geodiversity terminology; conservation strategies; Biodiversity patterns; Conserving nature's stage

AbstractGeodiversity—the diversity of abiotic features and processes of the Earth's surface and subsurface—is an increasingly used concept in ecological research. A growing body of scientific literature has provided evidence of positive links between geodiversity and biodiversity. These studies highlight the potential of geodiversity to improve our understanding of biodiversity patterns and to complement current biodiversity conservation practices and strategies. However, definitions of geodiversity in ecological research vary widely. This can hinder the progress of geodiversity–biodiversity research and make it difficult to synthesize findings across studies. We therefore call for greater awareness of how geodiversity is currently defined and for more consistent use of the term ‘geodiversity’ in biodiversity research.