Towards a taxonomy of geodiversity

Abstract

Geodiversity is a topical concept in earth and environmental sciences. Geodiversity information is needed to conserve nature, use ecosystem services and achieve sustainable development goals. Despite the increasing demand for geodiversity data, there exists no comprehensive system for categorizing geodiversity. Here, we present a hierarchically structured taxonomy that is potentially applicable in mapping and quantifying geodiversity across different regions, environments and scales. In this taxonomy, the main components of geodiversity are geology, geomorphology, hydrology and pedology. We propose a six-level hierarchical system where the components of geodiversity are classified at progressively lower taxonomic levels based on their genesis, physical–chemical properties and morphology. This comprehensive taxonomy can be used to compile geodiversity information for scientific research and various applications of value to society and nature conservation. Ultimately, this hierarchical system is the first step towards developing a global geodiversity taxonomy. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘Geodiversity for science and society’.

Quantitative measurement of geodiversity uniqueness: research implications and conservation applications

“…Here, we further extend the uniqueness approach to the analysis of geofeatures. Geofeatures comprise distinctive features of geology, geomorphology, hydrology and topography [34], which are relatively clearly defined objects of geodiversity [19,35]. They are easier to observe and map than complex measures or processes of abiotic diversity [4,13] the focus of environmental management and conservation actions [22].…”

Too much diversity—Multiple definitions of geodiversity hinder its potential in biodiversity research

“…Importantly, the spatial scale and associated data of the study will determine the specific geodiversity variables, that is, plot-scale studies may benefit from including, for example, smallscale variation in soil types and textures and in-situ measurements, whereas landscape-scale studies may only need to include coarser soil classes that can be derived using GIS and remote sensing. A recently developed taxonomy of geodiversity can help to determine which variables should be measured at different scales (Hjort et al, 2024). The clear definition of geodiversity also allows its explicit quantification, which can be done in the same way as for biodiversity.…”

Geodiversity for science and society

“…lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and cryosphere). In this themed issue, Hjort et al [4] in particular aim to make strides 'Towards a taxonomy of geodiversity', considering a language that everyone can rally around, drawing inspiration from the taxonomy we use to define living organisms. We wanted to give readers a sense of the breadth of geodiversity in this themed issue, so Gray's [5] paper provides 10 case studies across different themes to give readers who are and are not well versed in geodiversity alike the chance to appreciate its geographic, practical and conceptual scope.…”

“…In this themed issue, Hjort et al . [ 4 ] in particular aim to make strides ‘Towards a taxonomy of geodiversity’, considering a language that everyone can rally around, drawing inspiration from the taxonomy we use to define living organisms.…”