Integrating approaches leads to more effective conservation of biodiversity

Recent debates have discussed whether a species-approach or an ecosystem-approach is better for protecting biodiversity. Rather than perpetuate this debate, we argue that critical new scientific and conservation insights arise from combining and integrating approaches along a continuum. We present a suite of case studies and other examples, which highlight the value and synergies derived from an integrated approach for developing management-relevant understanding aimed at protecting biodiversity. Attempts to conserve biodiversity should therefore be multi-faceted in approach and thinking. They also should be long-term as well as driven by well-developed questions focused on closing key knowledge gaps.