Using conceptual models to understand ecosystem function and impacts of human activities in tropical peat-swamp forests

Increased resource investment in conservation is generating greater appreciation of the importance of ecological monitoring programmes to assess the effectiveness of conservation interventions in achieving their stated goals. A key component for developing such a programme is an appropriate conceptual model of ecosystem function and the effects of human activities on this. Tropical peatswamp forests are a particularly important ecosystem for reducing carbon emissions and biodiversity conservation. This is leading to increased investment in their protection and, consequently, an increased need for effective ecological monitoring programmes and conceptual models of ecosystem function on which to base these. Here, I adapt previous conceptual models of ecosystem function developed for terrestrial forests and other wetland ecosystems, to create a habitat-specific model for tropical peat-swamp forests. This provides a tool to guide thinking in developing ecological monitoring studies in this habitat and understanding (i) ecosystem processes and function, (ii) the impact of human activities on these, and (iii) subsequent impacts on ecosystem services. This is relevant for monitoring the effectiveness of conservation interventions with varying goals in tropical peat-swamp forest, including emission reductions; and highlights considerations relevant for conservation management and ecological monitoring in other wetland habitats. © US Government 2013.