A roadmap for island biology: 50 fundamental questions after 50 years of The Theory of Island Biogeography

摘要: Aims The 50th anniversary of the publication seminal book, The Theory Island Biogeography, by Robert H. MacArthur and Edward O. Wilson, is a timely moment to review identify key research foci that could advance island biology. Here, we take collaborative horizon-scanning approach 50 fundamental questions for continued development field. Location Worldwide. Methods We adapted well-established methodology horizon scanning priority in biology, initiated it during Biology 2016 conference held Azores. A multidisciplinary working group prepared an initial pool 187 questions. series online surveys was then used refine list top final shortlist restricted with broad conceptual scope, which should be answerable through achievable approaches. Results Questions were structured around four partially overlapping topics, including: (Macro)Ecology (Macro)Evolution, Community Ecology, Conservation Management. These topics subdivided according following subject areas: global diversity patterns (five total); ontogeny past climate change (4); rules syndromes (3); biogeography theory immigration–speciation–extinction dynamics (5); speciation diversification dispersal colonization community assembly (6); biotic interactions (2); conservation management policies invasive alien species (4). Main conclusions Collectively, this cross-disciplinary set covering has potential stimulate guide future By fields ranging from biogeography, ecology evolution change, scan may help foster formation interdisciplinary networks, enhancing joint efforts better understand past, present biotas.