A digital base map for studying the Neotropical flora

摘要: Despite advances in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote-sensing technology software, to date most systematists other botanists working on the Neotropical flora, particularly monographic series Flora Neotropica, have used hard-copy maps. These maps make it possible see basic distribution patterns, but they are highly inaccurate, fact that data not compiled digital form means is difficult or impossible retrieve metadata (i.e., collection attributes of specimen(s) associated with each point map), select combine datasets for various organisms, perform spatial statistics distributions, overlay species distributions onto soils, climate, environmental variables. In an effort help modernize plant studies GIS more accessible botanists, we developed a base map ofthe Americas multiple registered layers can be superimposed any combination easily create from lists dissemination analysis. This map, freely available systematists, was made using ArcView® GIS. Several were derived Environmental Research Institute (ESRI) (ArcWorld®, ArcAtlas®, Digital Chart World®). For version this system obtained additional vegetation soils (Woods Hole Center), elevation (U.S. Geological Survey), EcoRegions (World Wildlife Fund); our own projects, added number sources appropriate scale Amazonia state Acre, Brazil. The being expanded upon as new become available, actively seeking sets sources, including geographical institutes individual countries. makes carry out rather elegant analyses visualizations, following: (1) plot use overlays visualize coincidence patterns geographic features; (2) values morphological characters points order examine character variation over range (e.g., plotting leaf size latitudinal longitudinal patterns); (3) quantitatively analyze examining relationship between fruit rainfall); (4) vastly increase agility versatility historical biogeography techniques. Though botanist adept at theoretically could conduct these analyses, Base Map assembles disparate set high-quality, botanically relevant one place provides instructions obviate need deep expertise dramatically improves access geospatial especially developing world, should serve expand biogeography. We anticipate multifaceted approach mapping will facilitate work floristicians, geography progress conjecture testable hypotheses. may utilized by affiliated non-profit institution Arcview®, CD request.