Conservation application of existing data for South African millipedes (Diplopoda)

摘要: While there are currently several initiatives to identify priority areas for conservation, invertebrates, which may comprise as much 95 % of biodiversity, generally excluded from such activities. It is assumed that vegetation types and patterns floral diversity will adequately reflect those the underlying diversity, i.e. invertebrates. A lack adequate data expertise main contributing factors exclusion Existing South African millipedes were evaluated in terms usefulness biodiversity conservation planning management. We used databases museums published records. Large gaps exist collecting coverage Africa, many records date back early part last century. Quarter-degree grid cells containing highest species richness, number endemic coincide with intensively collected this approach thus has limited application planning. The site endemics (maximum distance between localities < 10 km) was 243, local (11 km maximum 70 102, regional (71 150 44, while total 430 (89 484 described species). we having not be only grids high levels endemism, 20 found within some quarter-degree cells. partially explained by a artefact, additional increase range-restricted species. narrow occur smaller bodied, less mobile millipede families Dalodesmidae, Gomphodesmidae Odontopygidae, have radiated isolated habitats forests. Most parts Africa inhabited large endemics. Because widely distributed endemics, it would impossible conserve all formal state reserves. Millipedes represent similar other soil saproxylic animals, play critical roles nutrient cycles. Although incomplete, given urgency created rapid land-use change taxon specialists evaluate their use these important trends improved efforts. In addition, efforts should made Red List invertebrates highlight extent threats major component biodiversity.