Effect of topographic complexity on species richness in the Galápagos Islands

Topographic complexity (TC) significantly influences species richness in the Galápagos Islands, with its impact varying among taxonomic groups and scales. While no single TC index consistently explained variation across all taxa, incorporating at least one index improved models for all 12 studied groups. Standard deviation of slope was the most common index to enhance predictions, highlighting TC's role as a critical component in species richness dynamics. The study challenges the assumption that TC follows a predictable hump-shaped trajectory with island age, emphasizing the need for multi-dimensional measures to fully capture its biological significance.

Roell, Y. E., Phillips, J. G., & Parent, C. E. (2021). Effect of topographic complexity on species richness in the Galápagos Islands. Journal of Biogeography, 48(10), 2645–2655. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/jbi.14230