Mapping species richness of plant families in European vegetation

Aims Biodiversity is traditionally studied mostly at the species level, but biogeographical and macroecological studies higher taxonomic levels can provide valuable insights into evolutionary processes large spatial scales. Our aim was to assess representation of vascular plant families within different vegetation formations across Europe. Location Methods We used a data set 816,005 plots from European Vegetation Archive (EVA). For each plot, we calculated relative richness family as number belonging that divided by total species. mapped richness, averaged all in 50 km × grid cells, for broad habitat groups: forests, grasslands, scrub wetlands. also absolute Shannon diversity index family. Results produced 522 maps mean 152 occurring found distinct patterns many combinations groups. The resulting series freely available, both images GIS layers. Conclusions revealed suggest community level reflects history individual families. believe associated inspire further strengthen ongoing integration phylogenetic, functional concepts.