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Topographic heterogeneity triggers complementary cascades that enhance ecosystem multifunctionality.

Tom P Fairchild1, Bettina Walter2, Joshua J Mutter1

  • 1Faculty of Science and Engineering, Wallace Building, Swansea University, Singleton Park Campus, Swansea, UK.

Ecology
|October 2, 2024
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Topographic heterogeneity enhances biodiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality by supporting diverse species interactions and critical functions. This physical attribute initiates ecological cascades, benefiting communities and functions like water filtration and metabolism.

Keywords:
Fucus serratusbiodiversityecosystem functioningfacilitationfoundation specieshabitat complexitysubstrate heterogeneity

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Marine Biology
  • Ecosystem Science

Background:

  • Topographic heterogeneity influences community assembly but its role in ecosystem functioning is unclear.
  • Understanding how physical structures shape ecological interactions and functions is crucial for conservation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To test if topographic heterogeneity drives cascading species interactions and functional pathways that control ecosystem multifunctionality.
  • To investigate the indirect effects of physical habitat structure on ecological processes.

Main Methods:

  • Experimental manipulation of topographic heterogeneity (rocky shore holes) and assessment of natural communities.
  • Utilized structural equation modeling to analyze species interactions and functional pathways.
  • Quantified ecosystem multifunctionality through various ecological functions.

Main Results:

  • Heterogeneity increased biodiversity by supporting filter feeder richness.
  • Facilitation cascades involving foundation species (polychaetes, macroalgae) were triggered, supporting diverse assemblages.
  • Key consumers (limpets) were inhibited, and multiple functions (water filtration, metabolism, nutrient uptake) were enhanced.
  • These mechanisms collectively boosted ecosystem multifunctionality.

Conclusions:

  • Topographic heterogeneity is a key driver of ecosystem multifunctionality.
  • It initiates cascading species interactions and supports foundation species, indirectly enhancing diverse ecological functions.
  • Physical habitat structure plays a critical role in maintaining complex and functional marine ecosystems.