Navigating the multiple meanings of β diversity: a roadmap for the practicing ecologist

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Biodiversity Science
• Quantitative Ecology

Background:

• Recent research on beta diversity has led to a proliferation of concepts, measures, and methods, causing confusion.
• A clear framework is needed to navigate the diverse analytical approaches for beta diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a roadmap for analyzing beta diversity, focusing on widely used and ecologically relevant methods.
• To distinguish between directional turnover and non-directional variation in ecological communities.
• To guide researchers in selecting appropriate measures and analytical techniques for their specific questions.

Main Methods:

• Distinguishing two types of beta diversity: directional turnover and non-directional variation.
• Evaluating different beta diversity measures based on their emphasis on presence/absence vs. relative abundance and inclusion/exclusion of joint absences.
• Utilizing a case study of Indonesian coral assemblages to demonstrate a multi-faceted analytical approach.
• Advocating for the rigorous application of null models to identify processes driving observed patterns.

Main Results:

• Different beta diversity measures highlight distinct properties of ecological data.
• A multi-faceted approach, combining various measures and null models, is effective for uncovering underlying patterns.
• The choice of measure significantly impacts the interpretation of beta diversity patterns.

Conclusions:

• Careful consideration of research questions is crucial for selecting appropriate beta diversity analyses.
• Employing multiple measures in concert provides a more comprehensive understanding of community variation.
• Null models are essential tools for inferring the ecological processes shaping beta diversity.