9,000 species of trees still to be discovered on Earth

A new study conducted by more than 100 scientists from around the world estimated the number of tree species on Earth. This work has led to the development of the largest forest data library to date by combining tree abundance and occurrence data, provided by data sharing platforms that are the Global Forest Biodiversity Initiative (GFBI) and Treechange. Information on tree species, their sizes and other characteristics was collected around the world and could thus be analyzed by the researchers.

How many species of trees?

However, to accurately estimate the number of tree species on Earth, it was also important to estimate the number of species that have not yet been discovered, most of which are probably rare with a limited spatial distribution and a low population density. To do this, scientists were able to work on new, more advanced statistical methods to estimate the number of unique tree species at the biome scale (tropical forest, Boreal forest, savannah, desert).

The most conservative estimate indicates a total number of tree species of 73,274 with 9,200 tree species yet to be discovered. Of all known species, about half to two-thirds come from tropical and subtropical rainforests which are places little studied by scientists, such as tropical and subtropical dry forests where there are still many tree species yet to be discovered.

In addition, the researchers estimate that about 40% of undiscovered tree species are found in South America, indicated in the article as the place of major importance for global tree diversity. Indeed, they estimated that this continent would host the most rare tree species, i.e. around 8,200, and estimate that 49% of the number of species endemic, i.e. present exclusively in this geographical area.

The importance of forest conservation

This diversity, which is exceptionally found in South America, raises even more awareness about the priority protection and conservation of forests on this continent, which are particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances such as global warming, the deforestation and the fires.

The conservation of forests is essential for many reasons, in particular for the “ ecosystem services » free which are essential to us. For example, productive services such as food,pure water, the drink, fibres, but also services for regulating the weather by purifying theair, diseases, water by regulating erosion and floods, etc Trees also contribute to the preservation of the biodiversity, promote soil formation and the cycle of nutrients.

In addition to participating in tree conservation efforts, Roberto Cazzolla Gatti of the University of Bologna in Italy and lead author of the study, stresses the interest in discovering new tree species. Indeed, it is necessary to deepen our knowledge to preserve the stability and functioning of ecosystems.