Ecological research is highlighting different kinds of issues concerning
biodiversity conservation policies. Based on a historical study on
protected areas, we suggest that these issues are not caused by a lack
of knowledge or technical tools but rather by a misuse of ecological
knowledge during the implementation of policy instruments. We strongly
believe that determining the conditions under which ecological science
can enlighten policy decisions is now necessary to address current
biodiversity conservation issues. This can only be achieved through the
promotion of interdisciplinary research.