Publications

Scientists’ warning on the global destruction of rock outcrop ecosystems

• Journal: Conservation Biology

• Authors: de Paula et al.

• Publication date: May 2026

• Why it matters: This study provides the first global warning on the rapid destruction of rock outcrop ecosystems, some of the world's most unique and overlooked biodiversity hotspots. By identifying the major threats, knowledge gaps and conservation priorities, the authors call for urgent international action to protect these ancient ecosystems and the many endemic species they support

Should species with smaller distribution ranges always be prioritised for conservation?

• Journal: Biodiversity and Conservation

• Authors: Giese, Prado-Monteiro, de Paula et al.

• Publication date: May 2026

• Why it matters: Species with small geographic ranges are often considered top conservation priorities, but is this always justified? Using desiccation-tolerant plants as a model system, this study shows that narrowly distributed species are not necessarily the most exposed to human pressures, nor do they always make the greatest contribution to biodiversity. The findings challenge a common assumption in conservation biology and argue for more nuanced strategies that consider species vulnerability, ecological importance and evolutionary distinctiveness when setting conservation priorities

Beyond scents: Calling on the fragrance industry to champion plant diversity 

• Journal: BioScience

• Authors: de Paula et al.

• Publication date: March 2026

• Why it matters: This perspective article explores how the fragrance industry can become an important ally in plant conservation. Bringing together researchers, conservation practitioners and industry partners from multiple countries, the study proposes innovative models that connect biodiversity conservation, cultural values and sustainable financing. The authors argue that fragrance companies can play a transformative role in protecting threatened plant species and ecosystems while fostering more responsible and biodiversity-positive supply chains

The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of inselbergs

• Journal: Biological Reviews

• Authors: Vanschoenwinkel, de Paula et al.

• Publication date: October 2025

• Why it matters: This study provides a comprehensive global synthesis of the ecological and evolutionary processes shaping inselberg ecosystems. By integrating evidence from multiple continents, the authors show how isolation, environmental filtering, dispersal limitation and evolutionary diversification interact to generate unique biodiversity patterns on these ancient terrestrial islands. The review identifies major knowledge gaps and establishes a research agenda for the conservation and study of one of the world's most remarkable yet understudied ecosystems

Non-native plant species on inselbergs of Brazilian tropical forests: checklist and insights for biodiversity management and conservation

• Journal: Neotropical Biology and Conservation

• Authors: Moreira, Carvalho, de Paula

• Publication date: July 2025

• Why it matters: This study presents the first comprehensive assessment of non-native plant species occurring on inselbergs within the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. By compiling records across numerous rock outcrops, the authors identify the main invasive species, pathways of introduction and potential impacts on native biodiversity. The findings reveal that even these naturally isolated ecosystems are vulnerable to biological invasions and highlight the need for monitoring, prevention and management strategies to safeguard their unique and highly endemic plant communities

Woody vegetation on tropical inselbergs: floristic-structural characterization and aboveground carbon storage

• Journal: Journal of Mountain Science

• Authors: Couto, Francisco, de Paula et al.

• Publication date: May 2025

• Why it matters: Tropical inselbergs are often perceived as harsh environments dominated by sparse herbaceous vegetation. This study reveals that many inselbergs also support diverse woody plant communities capable of storing substantial amounts of aboveground carbon. By characterizing the composition, structure and carbon stocks of these vegetation patches, the research highlights the overlooked ecological importance of inselbergs and their potential contribution to biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation