The article „Explore“ by Brandon Keim delves into the fascinating world of donkeys and their impact on ecosystems, challenging conventional wisdom about invasive species. The author introduces us to Erick Lundgren, a biologist who became intrigued by the wells dug by burros in the Sonoran Desert. These wells, created by donkeys, served as unexpected oases in an otherwise parched landscape. Lundgren’s curiosity led him to question the prevailing narrative that donkeys were invasive and destructive animals that needed to be eradicated.
The article highlights Lundgren’s journey from questioning the dichotomy between native and nonnative species to enrolling in graduate school to study the interactions of these species. He challenges the notion that native species are inherently good and nonnative species are inherently bad, advocating for a more nuanced approach to conservation. Lundgren’s research focuses on understanding the ecological roles of nonnative species and questioning the ethics of eradicating them without considering their potential benefits.
Through Lundgren’s work in places like Hawaii and the Southwest, the article explores the complex relationships between native and nonnative species. It raises important questions about the moral implications of killing invasive species and the need for a more compassionate approach to conservation. Lundgren’s observations in the field, such as the impact of donkeys on plant species, challenge traditional views on the role of nonnative animals in ecosystems.
The article also delves into the historical context of large-bodied animals in the Southwest and their ecological significance. Lundgren’s research sheds light on the unique contributions of megafauna to ecosystems and the importance of considering their absence as a loss. By studying the interactions between donkeys and plant species, Lundgren challenges the notion that nonnative species are inherently harmful and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of their ecological roles.
Overall, Brandon Keim’s article „Explore“ offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of conservation biology and the need to reevaluate our perceptions of native and nonnative species. Through Lundgren’s research and observations in the field, the article challenges readers to reconsider traditional conservation practices and adopt a more holistic and compassionate approach to protecting biodiversity.
