摘要：Situated between the subtropics and the mid-latitudes, South African climate is dominated by persistent anticyclonic conditions year round. 1,2 As a consequence, the region is relatively water scarce by global standards. 2,3 During years of below-average rainfall, significant biometeorological impacts are felt by natural systems and human populations, yet often these are under-researched and under-reported, particularly in developing regions. 4 Efforts to bring together interdisciplinary teams to collaborate in quantifying the impacts of adverse climatic conditions on ecosystem function are thus tremendously valuable. Swemmer et al. 5 report on one such workshop, presenting important insights into the detriments, and in some cases benefits, of the below-average rainfall experienced in 2015–2016.
关键词：Lincoln Declaration;standardised precipitation index
