BioScape Launches: Biodiversity Study of Greater Cape Floristic Region

As part of an international collaborative effort to understand more about the world's biodiversity hotspots, the South African and U.S. governments have launched BioSCape, an extensive research project centred around the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR). The study, supported by both NASA and the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), is expected to provide a deeper understanding of the region's biodiversity using a mix of satellite and airplane-derived data, complemented by on-site field observations.

Renowned for its exceptional level of biodiversity, including a number of endangered and threatened species, the GCFR is one of the world's 36 recognised biodiversity hotspots. Therefore, the insights gleaned from BioSCape could have implications for global biodiversity knowledge and help develop monitoring and management technologies for utilizing nature's services to humanity.

Dr. Jasper Slingsby of the University of Cape Town, who is the lead South African scientist on the project, believes that BioScape will offer valuable new perspectives on the region's diverse ecosystem and improve the existing methodologies for its mapping and monitoring. Additionally, the project is also expected to improve our understanding of the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.

SAEON managing director, Dr. Mary-Jane Bopape, expressed her confidence in South Africa's continuing contributions to high-level biodiversity research. The information collected through BioScape will play a pivotal role in shaping environmental management decisions for the GCFR, enhancing the potential for global impact.