Expanding the Global Network of Protected Areas to Save the Imperiled Mediterranean Biome

Abstract

Global goals established by the Convention on Biological Diversity stipulate that 10% of the world's ecological regions must be effectively conserved by 2010. To meet that goal for the mediterranean biome, at least 5% more land must be formally protected over the next few years. Although global assessments identify the mediterranean biome as a priority, without biologically meaningful analysis units, finer‐resolution data, and corresponding prioritization analysis, future conservation investments could lead to more area being protected without increasing the representation of unique mediterranean ecosystems. We used standardized analysis units and six potential natural vegetation types stratified by 3 elevation zones in a global gap analysis that systematically explored conservation priorities across the mediterranean biome. The highest levels of protection were in Australia, South Africa, and California‐Baja California (from 9–11%), and the lowest levels of protection were in Chile and the mediterranean Basin ( 30% conversion and suggest that these assemblages be elevated to high‐priority status in future conservation efforts.

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