Fernanda Costa
Life Sciences
Fernanda Costa, a biologist with a passion for urban conservation, has traveled through various Brazilian biomes, ultimately focusing her expertise on the unique biodiversity challenges of concrete jungles. Her academic foundation was built on a bachelor’s and master’s degree in biological sciences from the State University of Montes Claros, followed by a PhD in ecology, conservation and wildlife management from the Federal University of Minas Gerais. She continued her research through two postdoctoral fellowships at leading Brazilian universities.
Recognizing the vital role of urban green spaces in an increasingly urbanized world, Fernanda’s research focuses on how changes in urban landscapes affect biodiversity and identifies key species and ecosystem services critical to the health of urban centers.
Currently a lecturer at the University of Brasilia, nature is not just a research topic for Fernanda; she finds balance outside of her research by connecting with nature through yoga, meditation, and hiking.
Projects
Urban green spaces are important in supporting biodiversity and providing essential ecosystem services in cities. The rapid conversion of natural habitats into urban landscapes in recent decades poses a significant threat to both biodiversity and the benefits provided by nature. Understanding how urban green spaces function as refuges for biodiversity is crucial for conservation efforts and creating more sustainable cities.
This project will assess the impacts of urbanization-driven landscape change on biodiversity. We will identify key species and ecosystem services that contribute to the structure and functionality of urban landscapes. Our findings will be translated into predictive models that can be applied to other cities, linking urban landscape characteristics to overall functionality. Ultimately, this research will help prioritize preserving urban green spaces that maximize biodiversity and assist city planners in developing more sustainable urban environments.
