The Future of Phylogenetic Systematics in Conservation Biology:

Linking Biodiversity and Society

Roseli Pellens , Daniel P. Faith , and Philippe Grandcolas

Phylogenetic Systematics continues to develop due to the emergence of new techniques,

such as microbial biology, which explore diversity patterns at a wider scale. The study of
phylogenetic diversity often provides data such as red listings, species threats, as well as the
shifting in the distribution of biodiversity at certain ranges. Thus, the authors suggest that the
application of PD may explicitly identify opportunities of sustainability or conservation. Species
were primarily characterized and identified on the basis of morphological and molecular data
upon which it is analyzed for the construction of phylogenetic trees. However, it transformed to a
new paradigm as time and research progressed wherein it introduced a new rationale. Now, the
new idea discloses that characterization and delimitation of individuals could be recognized by
contrasting characters through the guidance of trees. Basically, it points out that trees will be first
constructed as guides for a species to be defined. This method is relentlessly utilized in
molecular species delimitation and metagenomics. Metagenomics refers to a technique which
simultaneously captures all DNA by wide sampling, which includes organisms that are often
disregarded by traditional taxonomy. This enables systematics to provide an in-depth concept of
diversity which links the characters and relationships of species to conservation biology.
Through all this, it must be noted that systematics is dynamic in nature and continuously changes
upon the introduction of new information. This breakthrough impacted biodiversity conservation
not only by increased likelihood of identification and the conservation of a taxa which
maximizes PD or which might cause a drastic loss in the evolutionary heritage, but also by
facilitating transition across scales. Furthermore, the availability of elaborate phylogenetic
information akin to Systematic Conservation Planning, allows for the identification of
conservation priorities and options. Planetary boundaries refer to the limitation of which
resources could be utilized before it cause adverse effects, or as stated, a “safe operating space”
for humanity. The aforementioned methods lead to the identification of Phylogenetic Key
Biodiversity Areas which greatly contribute to the retention of global PD. Even so, these
methods fail to address functional traits which are not heritable. This requires an alternative
model which efficiently correlates the shared traits to shared habitat. Overall, the article stresses
the necessity of the integration of phylogenetic diversity for better perspectives on sustainability.