Drivers of taxonomic bias in ecology and evolution: insights from ethologists and behavioural ecologists

Pietro Pollo, Michael M. Kasumovic

Taxonomic bias (i.e. the disproportionate attention given to some taxa relative to their diversity) remains a major barrier to achieving generality in ecology and evolution, yet its underlying causes are poorly understood. Here, we proposed a general framework to explain taxonomic bias along three major axes, supported by evidence from a survey of 868 researchers’ taxonomic experiences. First, rational considerations, such as logistical ease and societal relevance, were associated with the choice of research organisms within major animal groups, but rarely across them. Second, emotional factors, including fondness for certain taxonomic groups and preferences for particular work environments, closely mirrored patterns of taxonomic bias observed in the literature. This suggests that taxonomic affinities and the environments in which organisms occur play a critical role in the choice of study systems. Third, contextual factors, like the prominence of certain organisms within peer networks or early-career exposure to specific taxa, were also associated with which taxa are chosen as study systems. Based on these findings, we suggest actions to mitigate taxonomic bias, including promoting (i) outreach initiatives featuring neglected taxa, (ii) taxonomically equitable education, and (iii) taxonomically diverse research experiences.