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Published on: March 12, 2013
Spatial synchrony propagates through a forest food web via consumer-resource interactions
Kyle J Haynes1, Andrew M Liebhold, Todd M Fearer
1Department of Biology, University of Louisiana, P.O. Box 42451, Lafayette, Louisiana 70504, USA. kjh1087@louisiana.edu
Ecology
|December 9, 2009
Summary
Synchronous population fluctuations across large regions are explained by mast seeding synchrony. This synchrony propagates through trophic levels, impacting gypsy moth and white-footed mouse populations.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Population Dynamics
- Trophic Interactions
Background:
- Interspecific population synchrony across large regions is a widespread phenomenon.
- Mechanisms driving this synchrony, such as Moran effects and trophic interactions, are debated.
- Empirical evidence for synchrony propagation through food webs is scarce.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms driving spatial synchrony in populations of gypsy moths, white-footed mice, and acorns.
- To test the hypothesis that synchrony propagates through trophic interactions.
- To determine the relative importance of regional stochasticity versus consumer-resource dynamics in maintaining synchrony.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of time series data using nonparametric spatial correlation functions.
- Development and application of an empirically informed simulation model.
- Modeling interactions between acorns, white-footed mice, gypsy moths, and a gypsy moth pathogen.
Main Results:
- Gypsy moth, white-footed mouse, and acorn densities exhibited synchronous fluctuations over large distances (~1000 km).
- Regional stochasticity had minimal impact on the synchrony of individual species.
- Synchrony in mast seeding (acorn production) was identified as the primary driver propagating synchrony across trophic levels.
Conclusions:
- Mast seeding synchrony is a key mechanism driving interspecific synchrony in ecological communities.
- Trophic interactions play a crucial role in the transfer of population synchrony.
- Understanding synchrony propagation is vital for predicting population dynamics and community structure.
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