The Amazon Tree Diversity Network is an electronic network of 143 botanists, ecologists and taxonomists that share data and information on tree diversity in the pan-Amazon (Amazonia s.s. and the Guyana Shield). Our drive is to gain a better understanding of the processes that drive (patterns of) alfa- and beta-diversity in the region and, through this knowledge, contribute to better conservation strategies for the region. Currently we work with data from botanical 1-ha plots (and sometimes different sizes), forest inventories, and herbarium collections. In 2003 the work of ATDN resulted the first accurate and robust map of tree alpha-diversity of the Amazon. We unravelled relationships between climate and diversity. The combination of the above results and use of functional groups, successfully tried in some of our Guyana plots, and now also in the Amazon, can perhaps help us to predict the effect of global change in these important and beautiful forests. ... [Information of the supplier]
Biological collections are one of the main sources of information on biological diversity. The large quantity of information they represent and the fact that they are dynamic require, for their consultation and updating, the use of specialized computer tools. Gathering these collections in an information network allows not only for the connection of the main databanks, the updating of information and direct contact with specialists, but also access, exchange and consultation of data open to the public in general throughout the world. The World Biodiversity Information Network (REMIB) is a computerized system of biological information (it includes databases of a curatorial, taxonomic, ecological, cartographic, bibliographic, ethno-biological type, use of catalogues on natural resources and other subject matters), based on an academic inter-institutional decentralized and international organization, formed by research and higher education centers, both public and private, that possess both scientific biological collections and data banks. ... [Information of the supplier, modified]
