Centres of Species Diversity

Abstract

A principal goal of conservation activity is to ensure the long-term survival of as many species as possible. Traditionally, most resources available have been allocated to single ‘flagship’ species, either through in situ measures or through ex situ captive breeding efforts. Often these are large, charismatic species which generate considerable public interest. Habitat destruction and modification are the most important factors now affecting species survival and although conservation initiatives focused on single species may protect a particular organism’s habitat, and by extension a host of other associated species, they do not necessarily conserve those habitats which contain the most species.