Three-Dimensional Habitat Structure Drives Avian Functional and Trait Diversity Across North America

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Biodiversity Science
• Remote Sensing Applications

Background:

• Understanding 3D habitat structure's role in biodiversity is crucial for predicting impacts of habitat alteration.
• Few studies contrast 3D habitat composition and configuration effects on biodiversity, often focusing solely on species richness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of Light Detecting and Ranging (LiDAR)-derived 3D habitat structure on multiple facets of avian diversity.
• To test associations between 3D habitat structure measures and avian species richness, functional diversity, trait diversity, and phylogenetic diversity.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON).
• Analyzed 11 measures of 3D habitat structure (composition and configuration).
• Assessed impacts on avian species richness, functional diversity, trait diversity, and phylogenetic diversity.

Main Results:

• 3D habitat structure consistently predicted avian functional and trait diversity.
• Species richness and phylogenetic diversity showed little to no association with 3D habitat structure.
• Functional diversity and traits were strongly linked to habitat composition and configuration across vertical strata.

Conclusions:

• 3D habitat structure influences avian diversity primarily through its effects on species traits.
• Habitat composition and configuration effects vary across different forest vertical layers.
• Provides a framework for future research on habitat structure and avian diversity.