Exploring an inherent interface between taxonomy and biodiversity: Current problems and future challenges

SummaryIn the contemporary world, biodiversity science is fast emerging as one of the frontier areas of research with expanding concepts, testable hypotheses and ever-refining methodologies. Being a synthetic discipline, it is primarily ‘fed’ by the established fields of biological sciences, such as taxonomy, biogeography, ecology, evolution, genetics, and the like. Taxonomy, which essentially deals with discovery, description and classification of living organisms, underpins the basic understanding of biodiversity on Earth. The vast knowledge base generated through the theory and practice of taxonomy endows scientists in particular and the public in general with a precious password key, for free, which unlocks gates to unravel, understand and utilise the hidden treasure trove of biodiversity on the globe. Recognising this, the present paper attempts to highlight the inherent interface between the fields of taxonomy (already existing) and biodiversity science (recently emerging). We first explore the various indispensable roles of taxonomy in accomplishing challengeable goals of the documentation, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. The paper then highlights the current problems that need to be surmounted urgently, and finally sketches the future challenges to be met upfront, for a more productive interface between taxonomy and biodiversity sciences.