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Dynamic and context-dependent keystone species effects in kelp forests.

Ryan E Langendorf1,2, James A Estes3,4, Jane C Watson5

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Sea otter reintroduction triggered trophic cascades in kelp forests, but impacts varied. Dynamic interaction strengths, not average ones, explain differing community trajectories in Vancouver Island and San Nicolas Island ecosystems.

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Area of Science:

  • Marine ecology
  • Keystone species dynamics
  • Trophic cascades

Background:

  • Sea otters are keystone predators crucial for kelp forest health.
  • Their impact on kelp forests varies geographically.
  • Previous studies highlight sea otter roles in maintaining kelp ecosystems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze long-term datasets on kelp forest communities during sea otter reintroduction.
  • To compare the effects of sea otters on kelp forests in different regions (Vancouver Island and San Nicolas Island).
  • To understand how dynamic species interactions influence community trajectories.

Main Methods:

  • Analyzed two 30-year datasets on kelp forest communities.
  • Developed a community model to estimate dynamic species interaction rates.
  • Compared sea otter impacts on sea urchins and subsequent kelp recovery in two distinct locations.

Main Results:

  • A classic trophic cascade (urchin depletion, kelp recovery) occurred off Vancouver Island following otter arrival.
  • This cascade was muted around San Nicolas Island, with coexistence of otters, urchins, and kelp.
  • Differences were attributed to initial strong otter impacts in Vancouver Island and indirect competitive interactions in San Nicolas Island, highlighting dynamic interaction strengths.

Conclusions:

  • Dynamic interaction strengths, rather than average interaction strength, are key to explaining differing community trajectories.
  • Interspecific interactions can significantly alter keystone species function across various community contexts.
  • Considering dynamic interaction strengths improves predictions of community change.