Plant functional group classifications and a generalized hierarchical framework of plant functional traits

The plant functional group concept has been proven to be an excellent research framework for investigating the linkages between ecosystem functions and plant biodiversity. The large number of plant functional group classifications however makes it difficult to compare data from different studies and draw general conclusions. In this article, we briefly review the major plant functional group classifications, and then propose a generalized hierarchical framework that incorporates plant functional traits ranging from the molecular to the biospherical level, and operating on varying spatial/temporal/disturbance scales for in-depth studies of the relationship between plant biodiversity and ecosystem characteristics. This framework may help policy makers formulate better ecological conservation and restoration plans.