Historical arthropod diversity patterns direct rehabilitation targets for Robben Island, South Africa, a continental island in a biodiversity hotspot

Research on Robben Island reveals that arthropod diversity patterns from mainland sites north of the island, specifically Elandsbaai and Dwarskersbos, provide ideal reference targets for its biological rehabilitation rather than geographically closer locations. This finding suggests historical connectedness shapes current biodiversity, guiding restoration efforts to match vegetation height and cover without advocating for species reintroduction. The study used arthropod diversity data to identify the most suitable mainland sites for reference, emphasizing the importance of historical context in conservation strategies for continental islands.

Cooper, T. J. G., du Toit, J., Steenkamp, E., Pryke, J. S., & Roets, F. (2016). Historical arthropod diversity patterns direct rehabilitation targets for Robben Island, South Africa, a continental island in a biodiversity hotspot. African Journal of Ecology, 55(3), 316–327. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12356