TitleComment on "The extent of forest in dryland biomes".
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2017
AuthorsGriffith DM, Lehmann CER, Strömberg CAE, Parr CL, R Pennington T, Sankaran M, Ratnam J, Still CJ, Powell RL, Hanan NP, Nippert JB, Osborne CP, Good SP, T Anderson M, Holdo RM, Veldman JW, Durigan G, Tomlinson KW, Hoffmann WA, Archibald S, Bond WJ
JournalScience
Volume358
Issue6365
Date Published2017 11 17
ISSN1095-9203
Abstract

Bastin et al (Reports, 12 May 2017, p. 635) infer forest as more globally extensive than previously estimated using tree cover data. However, their forest definition does not reflect ecosystem function or biotic composition. These structural and climatic definitions inflate forest estimates across the tropics and undermine conservation goals, leading to inappropriate management policies and practices in tropical grassy ecosystems.

DOI10.1126/science.aao1309
Alternate JournalScience
PubMed ID29146777