Endemic vertebrates are the most effective surrogates for identifying conservation priorities among Brazilian ecoregions

摘要: Many studies have tested the performance of terrestrial vertebrates as surrogates for overall species diversity, because these are commonly used in priority-setting conservation appraisals. Using a database 3663 vertebrate 38 Brazilian ecoregions, we evaluated effectiveness various subsets representing diversity entire assemblage. Because ecoregions established incorporating information on biotic assemblages, they potentially more amenable to regional comparison than national or state lists. We 10 potential indicator groups (all species; all mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians; endemic and within each class) find priority sets that best represent fauna. This is first time such tests employed assess at ecoregion level Brazil. show patterns richness highly correlated among amphibians, reptiles. Furthermore, demonstrate selected according captured per unit area based itself, those random. Ecoregion bird, reptile, amphibian also performed well, capturing random sets, one classes ecoregions. Our results highlight importance evaluating biodiversity concordance use well aggregate richness. conclude provide basis assessment priorities an infracontinental scale. Areas with high endemism long been highlighted species. findings evidence not only worthwhile goal, but effective surrogate