TraitNet is dedicated to the advancement and integration of trait-based evolutionary and ecological research. Traits are variously defined, but essentially concern species' properties that affect individual fitness and govern species' impacts and responses to their environment. Trait-based research spans an enormous array of ecological and evolutionary disciplines. While each discipline has sought to define traits, apply trait data to test theory, establish protocols for the quantification of traits, and build multi-user databases, little coordination or interaction has occurred across disciplines. TraitNet addresses this extraordinary opportunity to facilitate integration and synthesis across this array of disciplines. TraitNet is structured by five goals (see figure below):

1. Identify key questions and Core Hypotheses in trait-based research.
2. Identify data gaps that hinder the advancement of intra- and inter-disciplinary trait-based research.
3. Coordinate the standardization of collection and curation of trait data.
4. Build a model database to test explicit Core Hypotheses developed through TraitNet workshops.
5. Facilitate the development of cross-disciplinary computational tools for merging, disseminating, and sharing trait data.

These activities will be structured around the design of a prototypical universal trait database, here referred to as TraitBank. It is important to note, however, that TraitNet itself, as an RCN, will not undertake to develop TraitBank, but rather lay the groundwork for such a facility.

Program Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Co-Director & P.I. >>> Shahid Naeem
Co-Director & co-P.I.>>> Daniel Bunker
Associate Director >>> Farshid Ahrestani

Current participants

Participation is open to individuals/institutes interested in trait-based research and/or informatics. 

Contact information:
Attn: S. Naeem
Columbia University
Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology
10th Flr. Schermerhorn Ext.
1200 Amsterdam Ave 5557
New York, NY 10027
email: Farshid Ahrestani
Tel.+1(908)313-6180     Fax.+1(212)854-8188