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New multidimensional functional diversity indices for a multifaceted framework in functional ecology.

Sébastien Villéger1, Norman W H Mason, David Mouillot

  • 1UMR CNRS-IFREMER-UM2 5119 Ecosystimes Lagunaires, Université Montpellier 2 CC 093, Montpellier, France.

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Summary

We introduce three new indices to measure functional diversity: functional richness, functional evenness, and functional divergence. This comprehensive approach offers a robust framework for understanding ecosystem functioning and community structure.

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Biodiversity research
  • Ecosystem functioning

Background:

  • Functional diversity is crucial for ecosystem functioning, yet a consensus on measurement indices is lacking.
  • Existing indices often fail to account for multiple traits, species abundances, and all facets of functional diversity.
  • A comprehensive approach is needed to accurately quantify functional diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose three novel, complementary indices for quantifying functional diversity: functional richness, functional evenness, and functional divergence.
  • To address the limitations of existing functional diversity indices by incorporating multiple traits and species abundances.
  • To provide a framework for classifying existing indices and understanding their relationship to community structure.

Main Methods:

  • Functional richness estimated using the convex hull volume index.
  • Functional evenness developed using the minimum spanning tree to assess abundance distribution regularity.
  • Functional divergence introduced to measure abundance-weighted species distances from the center of gravity.

Main Results:

  • The proposed set of three indices (richness, evenness, divergence) comprehensively captures functional diversity.
  • Functional divergence and evenness are independent of species richness.
  • The three indices are independent of each other, providing distinct insights.

Conclusions:

  • Decomposing functional diversity into richness, evenness, and divergence offers a meaningful quantification framework.
  • This decomposition aids in classifying existing indices and understanding biodiversity's role in ecosystem functioning.
  • The proposed indices and framework can illuminate the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on community structure.