News letter - GBIF-AsiaWG/GBIF-Asia-working-group GitHub Wiki
Table of Contents
2024
November
Science and Research (Recent journal articles with GBIF data use)
1.Study finds most Asian countries are far behind biodiversity targets for protected areas
New research revealed that Asia has fallen far behind in meeting global biodiversity targets, with only 13.2% of its land designated as protected by 2020—well below the global goal of 17%. Without significant intervention, Asia is projected to miss the 2030 target of 30% protected land by a wide margin. The study highlights key challenges, including habitat loss driven by rapid population growth, and offers actionable strategies, such as transboundary conservation and restoring degraded landscapes, to reverse the trend. (edited by Linda)
A groundbreaking study unveiled the diverse plant species distribution along the elevation gradient in the remote Pangi region of the Western Himalaya. Researchers identified 771 plant species, revealing a peak in species richness at mid-elevations (2,400–3,300m). Native species dominated higher altitudes, while human activities and elevation negatively impacted overall species richness. Insights into species composition across different zones highlight the region’s ecological uniqueness, offering critical data for conservation strategies. (edited by Linda)
REFERENCE: GBIF (2023) Global Biodiversity Information Facility. https://www.gbif.org/ (Accessed on 03 Jan 2023).
3.New Data on Distribution of Pleurotus abieticola (Pleurotaceae, Agaricales, Basidiomycota) in Russia
This study shed light on new findings on the rare mushroom species Pleurotus abieticola, which is located in northeastern Russia and the Northern Urals. It is a rare species found in Europe, Asia, and North America, and has also been recorded in several Russian regions. The research compares its genetic data with other global specimens, providing a detailed description of its morphology, distribution, and ecology. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the species’ range and characteristics. (edited by Linda)
REFERENCE: GBIF Occurrence Download, 2023. https://www.gbif.org/ ru/species/2526471. Accessed April 4, 2023.
This study explored the genomic evolution of the critically endangered tree Pellacalyx yunnanensis, revealing how human activity and climate change have driven its population decline. By assembling a chromosome-level genome, the research uncovered reduced genetic diversity, harmful mutations, and the loss of crucial stress-response genes. The study suggested that the species' low adaptive potential, including the loss of seed dormancy, hindering its survival, offering vital insights for conservation efforts and the species' ability to adapt to future climate challenges. (edited by Linda)
Data come from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) (http://www.nsii.cn/; https://www.gbif.org/).
This study examined how land use changes and climate change are accelerating habitat loss for the endangered Reeves's pheasant (Syrmaticus reevesii) in China. Using habitat suitability models and ecological corridor analysis, the authors predicted significant habitat fragmentation by 2050, with the pheasant’s habitat shrinking by nearly 90%. The research highlights the urgent need for habitat restoration, the creation of ecological corridors, and stronger governmental cooperation to protect this species from further decline. (edited by Linda)
Acquired occurrence data for Reeves's pheasant in China from the 19th century through the GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/).
This study uncovered the intriguing relationship between precipitation patterns and genome size in Scolopendra centipedes across mainland China. Using flow cytometry and phylogenetic analysis, researchers revealed three genome size groups linked to evolutionary clades. A striking negative correlation emerged: larger genomes are found in species inhabiting regions with narrow precipitation niches. This groundbreaking work highlights how climate and evolutionary history intertwine to shape genome size diversity. (edited by Linda)
Obtained species occurrence data from GBIF (accessed July 20, 2023, Yesson et al. ,2007)
A study explored the global potential distribution of Sweet Osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) under current and future climate scenarios using the MaxEnt model. Results revealed the species’ preference for warm, humid climates and highlight significant environmental factors affecting its distribution. Climate change is projected to shrink suitable habitats, shifting them southeastward. The findings provide valuable insights for conserving wild resources and developing climate-resilient varieties of this iconic landscaping tree. (edited by Linda)
Occurrence records of O. fragrans were collected from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF, http://www.gbif.org/)
This study revealed how climate changes since the Last Glacial Maximum have shaped the distribution of Abies species in Northeast Asia. Using advanced climate models, researchers showed that past climatic oscillations led to significant shifts in the ranges of boreal and temperate firs. The findings highlight contrasting responses among species and project further changes under future global warming scenarios, urging adaptive forest conservation strategies. (edited by Linda)
Sourced presence points data for A. holophylla, A. nephrolepis and A. sachalinensis from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF.org ,2024)
This study investigated the impact of climate change on the distribution of the endangered and endemic orchid Changnienia amoena in China using ensemble modeling and gap analysis. The findings revealed significant habitat loss and fragmentation under future climate scenarios, with only a small fraction of its suitable areas currently under protection. By leveraging GBIF data for environmental variables, the research underscored the urgent need for expanded conservation efforts. This analysis provides crucial insights into orchid conservation under climate change, guiding strategies for safeguarding China's unique biodiversity. (edited by Linda)
Information through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF, https://www.gbif.org/, last accessed on 16 January, 2024).
10.Accelerated succession in Himalayan alpine treelines under climatic warming
This study explored how climatic warming accelerates forest succession in Himalayan alpine treelines. By examining the competition and succession strategies of birch and fir, the authors found that fir outpaces birch in both recruitment and upward movement, with warming predicted to speed up this trend. The research highlights the rapid dominance of late-successional species over early pioneers, offering critical insights into the future dynamics of alpine forests and their potential impacts on ecosystem services. (edited by Linda)
Occurrence data for Himalayan birch and Himalayan fir were retrieved using the Global Biodiversity Information Facility database (https://www.gbif.org/)
Policy and Partnerships
1. What’s next for ASEAN post COP 16?
At COP 16, ASEAN Member States launched the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan (ABP) to tackle global biodiversity challenges. The conference addressed critical issues like biodiversity loss, climate change, and invasive species. Key outcomes include the establishment of the “Cali Fund” for equitable genetic resource use, stronger indigenous community involvement in conservation, and new initiatives for sustainable wildlife management. The ASEAN region is now positioned to enhance collaboration, funding, and policy coherence to protect biodiversity and achieve the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM GBF) targets. (edited by Linda)
A blog on IUCN explores the role of Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in achieving global biodiversity goals, particularly the 30x30 target. It highlights insights from China and international case studies, discussing the challenges and opportunities in OECM implementation. The article covers key discussions from the COP16 meeting, including the involvement of non-state actors, the launch of China’s first OECM fund, and the potential of OECMs in contributing to long-term biodiversity conservation. (edited by Linda)
3. Over 40% of coral species face extinction – IUCN Red List
The latest IUCN Red List assessment reveals that 44% of reef-building coral species are now at risk of extinction, a significant increase since the last evaluation in 2008. Climate change remains the leading threat, exacerbating coral bleaching and disease, while pollution and unsustainable fishing practices also contribute to coral declines. Urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address local threats is critical for preserving these vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, coastal livelihoods, and climate regulation. (edited by Linda)
4. COP 16 Decisions Reflection: How It Matters for the SEA Region and Beyond
A post by Greenpeace shows that COP 16 has brought vital decisions that shape the future of biodiversity in Southeast Asia and beyond, focusing on marine and coastal biodiversity, the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IP&LCs), and the resource mobilization necessary for conservation efforts. Key outcomes include new frameworks for protecting Ecologically or Biologically Significant Areas (EBSAs), addressing coral bleaching, and enhancing biodiversity-climate synergy. For Southeast Asia, the decisions emphasize the region's role in shaping biodiversity policies, ensuring that local communities and traditional knowledge are integral to conservation strategies. (edited by Linda)
5. Inside Japan's 100-year project to monitor its deteriorating biodiversity
According to an article in the Japan Times, Japan's "Monitoring Sites 1,000" project is a century-long initiative to track biodiversity across 1,000 key locations, from mountains to coral reefs. Launched in 2003, the project involves fixed-point observations of plants and animals to monitor environmental changes. With the support of volunteers and guidance from conservation groups, it provides valuable insights into how climate change and human activities are impacting Japan's diverse ecosystems. This ambitious effort showcases Japan's dedication to protecting its natural heritage. (edited by Linda)
6. Traditional medicine and biodiversity highlighted at COP16
According to a post by WHO, at CBD COP16, traditional medicine and biodiversity were spotlighted, with a focus on integrating One Health strategies to tackle biodiversity loss and zoonotic disease risks. The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre highlighted the importance of Indigenous knowledge in biodiversity conservation and global health frameworks. Key discussions included nature-based solutions for human health and new recommendations for cross-sector biodiversity and health strategies. COP16 also emphasized the need for increased funding and Indigenous community participation in shaping policies that bridge health, biodiversity, and traditional knowledge. (edited by Linda)
Community and Capacity
1. Call for proposals for 2025 Capacity Enhancement Support Programme
According to the GBIF Capacity Development Framework, GBIF invites existing participants to submit concept notes addressing specific capacity needs and that aligned with one or more priority areas in the GBIF Work Programme 2025. This call funds under Capacity Enhancement Support Programme (CESP). The proposals should be submitted through the GBIF Grants Portal by 4 February 2025, 23:59 CET (UTC +1). (edited by Qianruo Wan)
2. Call for proposals: 2025 to 2026 Conservation Fund and Hong Kong Biodiversity Conservation Fund
2025 to 2026 Conservation Fund is seeking proposals for regular (1-2 years) or long-term (3-5 years) projects focused on the conservation of threatened wildlife in Asia, with measurable conservation outcomes. The application deadline is January 31st, 2025, at 12:00 GMT (UTC +8). The Hong Kong Biodiversity Conservation Fund is inviting proposals concentrate on the Hong Kong’s local habitats and biodiversity conservation, with an emphasis on collaboration and education initiatives. The deadline for the application is February 28th, 2025, at 12:00 GMT (UTC +8). (edited by Qianruo Wan and Meiling)
3. PRF and ACB to Work Together for ASEAN ENMAPS Initiative
The Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia Resource Facility (PRF) and ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) held a partnership announcement on November 7th at the East Asian Seas (EAS) Congress. The two are dedicated to implementing of Effectively Managing Networks of Marine Protected Areas in Large Marine Ecosystems in the ASEAN Region (ASEAN ENMAPS), which works on the effective management of Southeast Asia’s rich and diverse marine ecosystems. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
4. ACB showcases marine conservation leadership at the East Asian Seas Congress 2024
The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) with its representatives held the East Asian Seas (EAS) Congress from 6 to 8 November, 2024. ACB’s marine conservation project, tittled “Effectively Managing Networks of Marine Protected Areas in Large Marine Ecosystems in the ASEAN Region” (ASEAN ENMAPS) was showcased. The project aims to construct marine protected areas (MPAs) networks thereby ensure the safeguarding of marine biodiversity within the context of fisheries sustainability. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
5. Global Panda Partners 2024 conference opens in SW China's Chengdu
Global Panda Partners 2024 conference was successfully held in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, with the theme "Harmonious Coexistence Between Man and Nature”. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
6. Xi'an solar company launches initiative for biodiversity conservation in China
LONGi Green Energy Technology, a leading solar technology from Xi'an, China, unveiled an initiative on global renewable energy application, and advocated cooperation in biodiversity conservation, at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) , held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22, 2024, an effort that was highly praised by the deputy director of IUCN. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
7. The Third International Symposium of Mapping Asia Plants Successfully Convenes
The Third International Symposium of Mapping Asia Plants was held at the Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IB-CAS) on November 25-26, 2024. Focusing on issues such as the current status of Asian plants, their distribution patterns, the compilation of regional floras, the digitalization of plant information, and the conservation of threatened plants, this symposium proposed prospects for future plant diversity research and promoted cooperation and the in-depth study of Asian plant diversity. (edited by Qianruo Wan and Meiling)
8.2024 TaiBIF data mobilization and workshop
The 2024 TaiBIF workshop, held over three days at Academia Sinica, focused on enhancing skills for biodiversity data sharing and publishing. Participants from diverse backgrounds learned about data cleaning, mobilizing, and data use through basic to advanced courses. Hands-on training included OpenRefine, TaiBIF open data toolkit (ODT), and publishing data on IPT. Advanced sessions covered data use, avoiding misuse, and data papers to enhance visibility and collaboration. The event also emphasized community building through volunteer training and will be held annually. (edited by TaiBIF)
Infrastructure and data products (Data newly published on GBIF or other repository)
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has unveiled two online resources, i.e., an interactive digital guide of the Resource Guide to Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and a complementary e-course, to support countries and stakeholders in restoring degraded ecosystems. FAO authorities think the two online resources are an important step of FAO to contribute to the diverse needs of restoration stakeholder. （edited by Xiuzhi Chen）
2. The Global Biodiversity Standard officially launched at COP16
The team of The Global Biodiversity Standard (TGBS) celebrated its launch at COP16, featuring the first certified sites in Colombia, Bolivia, and Uganda, including an advanced site by the Jane Goodall Institute and Ecosia. With workshops, new hubs in Latin America, and global endorsements, TGBS is gaining momentum in transforming biodiversity outcomes worldwide.（edited by Xiuzhi Chen）
Researchers used digitized natural history collections data to demonstrate that leveraging adaptable open educational resources which utilize freely available data and analysis tools, can enhance the accessibility of undergraduate research. Additionally, they introduced the Biological Collections in Ecology and Evolution Network (BCEENET) community, which implements these digital open education resources.（edited by Xiuzhi Chen）
This paper reviews the growing array of R packages for species distribution modeling (SDMs) and their integration into workflows. It introduces the new R package sdmverse, which catalogs and clusters SDM tools based on functionality, fostering a pluralistic approach to improve analyses. Through three documented case studies, scored against methodological standards, the authors demonstrate the benefits of combining multiple packages. The paper also identifies gaps and challenges in current SDM software development. （edited by Xiuzhi Chen）
5. Global planted forest data for timber species
Researchers have developed a species-level global planted forest dataset, named Planted Forest Timber Data, to aid in discerning whether certain timber species were harvested from natural forests or, often less restricted, planted forests. The dataset comprises ‘polygon’ and ‘non-polygon’ location-based data. The polygon location-based data were sourced from the World Resources Institute’s Spatial Database of Planted Trees v2.0, while the non-polygon data were derived from peer-reviewed literature and government documents.（edited by Xiuzhi Chen and Meiling）
6. Avian communities of betel nut plantation and secondary forest in Taiwan (GBIF dataset)
Researchers from the Taiwan Biodiversity Research Institute have published a dataset on avian communities in betel nut plantations and secondary forests in Taiwan. The dataset includes bird species data collected during the breeding season (March to May) in 2015 and 2016, across a total of 80 sites in five central Taiwan counties.（edited by Xiuzhi Chen）
7.TaiBIF volunteer developed an AI chatbot, Digital GBIFer
Digital GBIFer (old name: CoreTech Assistant) for GBIF Asia community and won the Ebbe Nielsen Challenge 3rd Prize: This tool bridges language gaps, retrieves expert guidance from available documentation, and simplifies both the preparation and use of Darwin Core-formatted data. The chatbot detects the user's language from their input, retrieving and providing technical information in their preferred language. By reducing barriers to entry for non-English speakers, CoreTech Assistant closes a gap in the sharing and use of biodiversity information, especially users in the countries of Asia. (edited by TaiBIF)
November 2024 news provided by
Zheping Xu, GBIF Asia Nodes representative
Meiling Piao , GBIF CAS node staff
Linda Wong , China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation
Qianruo Wan , Beijing Normal University
Xiuzhi Chen , Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI BGC)
And thanks for contribution for the suggested news
Zhaocui Meng, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Yannan Fan, GigaScience Press
Zhi-Pang Huang, Dali Univeristy
Melissa Liu, TaiBIF
Pakorn Nalinrachatakan, Chulalongkorn University
October
Science and Research (Recent journal articles with GBIF data use)
This study examines the effects of climate change on the medicinal orchid Bulbophyllum odoratissimum and its main host tree Pistacia weinmannifolia. The results showed that under the SSP5-8.5 emissions scenario, suitable habitats for both species will decline, particularly in the southern part of their range, with potential habitat loss of over 56%. However, new niches may become available in the northern regions, where the overlap between the orchid and its host tree will increase. The study calls for prioritizing these areas as conservation zones for future preservation of both species. (edited by Linda)
Data referenced in work https://doi.org/10.15468/dl.2422n2 https://doi.org/10.15468/dl.d52jkb https://doi.org/10.15468/dl.3wrjh8 https://doi.org/10.15468/dl.mt3khq https://doi.org/10.15468/dl.kpj6e5
This study investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of four threatened Calamus species in India, revealing significant genetic bottlenecks and deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, indicating population decline. The research emphasized the need for targeted in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies, including protecting genetically unique populations and addressing skewed sex ratios. Notably, the study also predicts predicted optimal ecological niches for C. brandisii using MAXENT modeling. (edited by Linda)
Occurrence data from GBIF
3.The influence of climate change on the potential distribution of Ageratum conyzoides in China
This study investigated the potential distribution of the invasive plant Ageratum conyzoides in China, using advanced modeling techniques to predict its spread under current and future climate conditions. The results showed that its suitable habitat currently spans 1.47 million km² in central and southern China, and is expected to expand northeastward by 2060. The ensemble model used in this study demonstrated excellent predictive performance, with a TSS of 0.833 and an AUC of 0.971, highlighting the plant's potential risk to local ecosystems and agriculture. (edited by Linda)
Collected global geographic distribution information of A. conyzoides from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF, Ageratum conyzoides L. (gbif.org))
This study used MaxEnt and Wallace Ecological Modeling tools to predict the distribution of Indianthus virgatus, an endemic plant of the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka, under current and future climate scenarios. The results showed excellent model performance (AUC: 0.958 and 0.93) and predicted significant habitat loss, particularly under the RCP85 scenario. The species thar are facing reduced habitat suitability underscore the urgent need for conservation actions. (edited by Linda)
A few other online herbarium databases and digital repositories, including the Global Biodiversity Information Facility GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/citation-guidelines)
This study compared two modeling approaches, GARP and MaxEnt, to predict the geographic distribution of Ceracris nigricornis in China, a pest that threatens crops like bamboo, rice, and corn. The results revealed that the suitable habitat for this pest is currently 128.91 million km² according to MaxEnt, with fluctuations in future climate scenarios—decreasing by 3.19% by the 2050s under SSP1-2.6 and increasing by 33.03% in the 2050s under SSP5-8.5. These findings suggested significant geographic shifts, with the pest's range expanding northward and southwestward, especially in regions like Sichuan and Yunnan province. (edited by Linda)
The distribution records of C. nigricornis were derived from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF, 2023)
This study predicted the potential distribution of the endangered tree Emmenopterys henryi in China, using a combination of Biomod2 and MaxEnt models based on 612 occurrence records and 22 environmental variables. The results showed that its current suitable habitat encompasses 176.53 million km², primarily in eastern, central, and southwestern China. However, under future climate change scenarios, its range is expected to decrease by by an average of 3.90%. Notably, the species' distribution centroid is projected to shift northeastward, indicating potential challenges for its conservation. (edited by Linda)
we carried out comprehensive surveys for E. henryi wild populations in Anhui, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang, and other provinces in East China to acquire their spatial localities; (2) searching through resource sharing platforms, which include the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF, https://www.gbif.org/)
This study assessed the invasion risk of 250 alien woody species in potential national park sites in Xinjiang, China, using species distribution modeling under climate change. The results revealed that the Altai Kanas National Park faces a significantly higher risk of forest invasion than other nature reserves, with species such as Acer negundo and Robinia pseudoacacia posing the greatest threat. These findings underscored the importance of proactive management to protect ecosystems from invasive species. (edited by Linda)
The distribution data of alien woody species were downloaded from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF; https://www.gbif.org/) database
This study used the Maxent model to predict the potential suitable areas for Ziziphus jujube in Tuha Basin under current and future climate conditions. The findings highlighted that suitable areas are mainly concentrated in low-altitude regions and transitional zones from mountains to plains, with elevation being a key factor influencing distribution. This research provides scientific support for the development planning of the region's jujube industry. (edited by Linda)
The geographical distribution data of Ziziphus jujube mainly originate from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) (http://www.gbif.org/).
Policy and Partnerships
IUCN recently added 12 new sites from Brazil, China, Colombia, France, Saudi Arabia, and Zambia to its Green List, recognizing them for effective governance and conservation. These include the Soure Marine Extraction Area in Brazil and Wuyishan National Park in China, increasing the total number of Green List sites to 87 across 20 countries. This addition supports global biodiversity goals, contributing to the 30x30 conservation target by 2030. (edited by Linda)
2.Empowering coastal communities: IUCN Pakistan awards small grants
IUCN Pakistan recently awarded small grants to four local NGOs working in coastal areas to enhance the resilience of Pakistan’s coastal ecosystems and communities. Funded by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, this initiative supports the management and sustainable development of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), contributing to both local livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. (edited by Linda)
The ASEAN Senior Officials on Environment have endorsed the U.S.-ASEAN Alliance for Protected Area Conservation, a project funded by USAID. This initiative will enhance the management of ASEAN’s 57 Heritage Parks, helping to reduce land-based greenhouse gas emissions and support both climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation efforts. (edited by Linda)
At the 2024 Switzerland-Japan Economic Forum, global leaders urged urgent action on biodiversity loss, with a projected $10 trillion in economic value and 395 million jobs by 2030 from a nature-positive economy. Read the full article for more insights. (edited by Linda)
5.The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Issues its First Biodiversity and Nature Bond
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) issued its first biodiversity and nature-themed bond, valued at A$150 million, to finance sustainable projects across Asia and the Pacific. The 10-year bond was purchased by Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company and arranged by Credit Agricole CIB. Part of ADB’s Theme Bonds for Sustainable Development program, the bond aims to protect and restore biodiversity, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The issuance underscores ADB’s commitment to a nature-positive Asia and the Pacific. (edited by Meiling)
Current trends suggest most Asian countries are unlikely to meet future biodiversity targets. In 2020, Asia’s terrestrial protected area coverage was only 13.2%, well below global goals. To meet the 2030 target, PA expansion must accelerate 2.4–5.9 times. Read the full article for more. (edited by Linda)
Community and Capacity
1.Pakistan gears up for Green Growth: Finalising the National Bamboo Strategy
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (MoCC&EC) and Government of Pakistan collaborated with International Network on Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) and IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), finalising Pakistan's National Bamboo Strategy through two-day national validation workshop. This strategy promotes addressing climate challenges and contributes to sustainable management and economic diversification as part of Pakistan’s broader goals. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
Over 20 civil society organisations（CSOs）strengthened communication capacity and skills at a three-day workshop organized by IUCN in Cambodia. Participants also visited the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) to put learning into practice. The IUCN will continue to support opportunities for local organizations to develop communication skills. (edited by Qianruo Wan and Meiling)
3.Penning a greener future: Training environmental journalists in Pakistan
IUCN Pakistan supported a two-day training workshop for environmental journalists, conducted in Karachi, Sonmiani, and the Miani Hor mangrove system, Pakistan. This training strengthened the collaboration of IUCN and journalist community, and also made conservation efforts on Pakistan’s coastal ecosystems. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
4.Asia Nature Challenge Project in iNaturalist has reached 10,000 Species Milestone
iNaturalist recorded over 10,000 species, ranging from insects to trees, contributed by over 5,000 dedicated observers from Asia, as the Asia Nature Challenge reached its milestone. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) has contributed to the achievements of conservation and livelihood development over the past decade through the Small Grants Programme (SGP). Activities include knowledge exchange, a sustainability forum, and the launch of the #ExploreASEAN Knowledge Hub. In addition to developing collaborative management plans for several ASEAN heritage parks in Indonesia and Myanmar, the SGP has launched more than 60 biodiversity-related products and services to support the sustainable development of local communities, and promoted project experience through knowledge products that serve as a reference for other protected areas. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
6.Announcement of The Third International Symposium of Mapping Asia Plants
Asia, abundant in plant biodiversity, holds invaluable information that is crucial for advancing biodiversity research and enhancing conservation initiatives. To enhance collaboration and the sharing of research in Asia and neighboring regions, the Biodiversity Committee of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (BC-CAS) and the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, CAS with support from the Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO), are planning to host The Third International Symposium of Mapping Asia Plants in Beijing, China, on November 25-26, 2024.
The following topics will be discussed during the meeting:
- Asian plant diversity and its response to environmental changes.
- Development of plant species cataloging and distribution databases.
- Distribution patterns and formation mechanisms of plant diversity.
- Plant diversity conservation and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- Threatened plants in Asia：patterns and conservation.
Both international and domestic experts will be warmly welcome to participate in and share their progress and insights of plants in Asia, either virtually or in person. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Look forward to meeting with you in China.
Infrastructure and data products (Data newly published on GBIF or other repository)
1.Ecological monitoring data of wetlands and detention ponds under the jurisdiction of the Water Resources Engineering Department of the Taipei City Government's Public Works Bureau(GBIF dataset, 11,147 records, published on October 29, 2024)
This ecological monitoring data includes 13 wetlands and parks, such as Shezidao Wetland, Daotou Park, and Sheliu Wetland. The survey includes all vertebrates, and invertebrates include butterflies from the order Lepidoptera in the class Insecta, as well as all members of the order Odonata. (edited by Meiling)
2.2023 Ewha Womans University Natural History Museum Marine Life Resources in Republic of Korea(GBIF dataset, 750 records, published on October 28, 2024)
This dataset monitoring marine species in Korea includes 750 occurrences, encompassing Mollusca, Porifera, and Arthropoda, recorded between 1954 and 2021. (edited by Qianruo Wan and Meiling)
3.FernGreenList ver. 2.0: an updated version of check list of wild ferns and lycophytes in Japan(GBIF dataset, 1,117 records, published on October 17, 2024)
FernGreenList ver. 2.0 is an updated checklist of wild ferns and lycophytes in Japan. It encompasses a total of 1,117 taxa, which includes 736 species (including subspecies and varieties), four forms, and 377 interspecific hybrids. This represents an increase of 21 taxa from the previous version released in 2017. (edited by Qianruo Wan and Meiling)
4.The dataset of Biodiversity of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh province, Vietnam(GBIF dataset, 497 records, published on October 14, 2024)
This dataset from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, documents biodiversity within the Son Doong cave system, supported by the Vietnam Ministry of Science and Technology. The study, from January 2022 to December 2024, covers a wide range of species including vascular plants, mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates, aiming to assess and conserve the area’s unique ecosystems. (edited by Meiling)
5.The result of bioblitz conducted by Seongnam City at Namhansanseong Fortress in Korea, Republic of(GBIF dataset, 895 records, published on October 2, 2024)
This is the result of bioblitz conducted by Seongnam City at Namhansanseong Fortress. Plants, insects, amphibians reptiles, mushrooms, birds and benthic macroinvertebrates were examined. The Seongnam Bioblitz records were shared through the citizen science platform ‘NATURING’. (edited by Qianruo Wan)
October 2024 news provided by
Zheping Xu, GBIF Asia Nodes representative
Meiling Piao , GBIF CAS node staff
Linda Wong , China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation
Qianruo Wan , Beijing Normal University
And thanks to
Zhi-Pang Huang, Dali University
Syed Zahid Hasan, Sylhet Agricultural University
Yannan Fan, GigaScience Press
Zhaocui Meng, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Arman Pili, University of Potsda