Exploring the biodiversity of tropical rainforest canopies
Posted on 2 July 2007
The team is studying the tropical rainforest in Borneo’s Danum Valley Conservation Area to examine the distribution and abundance of species, and the effects of commercial selective logging.
The team’s findings have changed our understanding of how this important ecosystem works by focusing on biodiversity in the forest canopy. Their exhibit Life at the Top will feature in the Royal Society’s Summer Exhibition from 2 to 5 July.
Recent research on canopy ferns has shown that they trap leaf litter and so allow many more invertebrates to live in the canopy
Dr Jane Hill
"Until recently, the forest canopy was not studied in detail. Recent research on canopy ferns has shown that they trap leaf litter and so allow many more invertebrates to live in the canopy," says Dr Jane Hill, of the Department of Biology at the University of York. "This has a huge implication for our understanding of the forest, as well as the severity of the consequences of climate change and logging."
The research team has been studying for over a decade at a field site in Borneo, a globally diverse ‘hotspot’. A wide range of plant and animal species has been studied, and new species have been identified, showing the area is of great scientific importance and must be preserved.
"There are many environmental and economic challenges faced by the rainforest," says Jane. "Our research is showing how uniquely diverse this ecosystem is, and the importance of conservation to help the health of the whole planet."
The team is:
- Dr William Foster, University of Cambridge
- Dr Keith Hamer, University of Leeds
- Dr Jane Hill, University of York
- Professor Maryati Mohamed, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
- Dr Glen Reynolds, Royal Society SE Asia Rainforest Research Programme
- Dr Waidi Sinun, Danum Valley Management Committee/Sabah Foundation
- Dr Chey Vun Khen, Forest Research Centre, Sabah
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- More information on the Royal Society’s Summer Exhibition at http://www.summerscience.org.uk/07/.
- More information on the current research at Danum Valley at www.searrp.org