Richness pattern and phytogeography of the Cerrado herb–shrub flora and implications for conservation

A groundbreaking study reveals that the Cerrado's herb-shrub flora, often overlooked in conservation efforts, exhibits significant spatial variation with highest species richness concentrated in central-southern and western regions. Using species distribution models (SDMs) for 5362 species, researchers identified two distinct floristic clusters at the core of the Cerrado and seven additional regions sharing elements with these clusters. Critically, many high-richness areas remain unprotected, highlighting a gap in current conservation strategies. This research underscores the urgent need to prioritize these regions for preservation to safeguard the Cerrado's unique herb-shrub biodiversity.

Amaral, A. G., Munhoz, C. B. R., Walter, B. M. T., Aguirre‐Gutiérrez, J., & Raes, N. (2017). Richness pattern and phytogeography of the Cerrado herb–shrub flora and implications for conservation. Journal of Vegetation Science, 28(4), 848–858. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvs.12541