Oases in the Sahara Desert-Linking biological and cultural diversity

The diversity of life sensu lato comprises both biological and cultural diversity, described as biocultural diversity. Similar to plant and animal species, cultures and languages are threatened by extinction. Since drylands are pivotal systems for nature and people alike, we use oases in the Sahara Desert as model systems for examining spatial patterns and trends of biocultural diversity. We identify both the underlying drivers of biodiversity and the potential proxies that are fundamental for understanding reciprocal linkages between biological and cultural diversity in oases. Using oases in Algeria as an example we test current indices describing and quantifying biocultural diversity and identify their limitations. Finally, we discuss follow-up research questions to better understand the underlying mechanisms that control the coupling and decoupling of biological and cultural diversity in oases.

Automated summary

Biocultural diversity, encompassing both biological and cultural diversity, faces the threat of extinction, similar to plant and animal species. This study focuses on oases in the Sahara Desert as model systems to examine spatial patterns and trends of biocultural diversity, and identifies the drivers and potential proxies for understanding the interconnections between biological and cultural diversity. Using oases in Algeria as an example, current indices describing and quantifying biocultural diversity are tested and their limitations are identified. Further research questions are discussed to enhance understanding of the underlying mechanisms controlling the coupling and decoupling of biological and cultural diversity in oases.