Enhancing taxonomy research in Brazil: the need for comprehensive funding beyond human resources

Abstract

The National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) and Confap announced the launch of the 5th edition of the Protax programme aimed at supporting the advancement of human resources in biological taxonomy. The funding for the programme has been increased from R$6 million (equivalent to 1,1 million US dollars) to R$14 million ($2,5 million), making grants of up to R$400,000 ($73 thousand) per project available. However, it is important to note that the programme primarily emphasises human resources, overlooking the crucial need for funding fieldwork, which plays a vital role in taxonomic research in diverse ecosystems like the Amazon. To ensure the success of Protax, a comprehensive approach including dedicated funds for expeditions and biological collections is essential.

Keywords

• PROTAX
• Brazil
• CNPq
• taxonomy