Abstract
AbstractPredicting the effects of species extinction is challenging because of ecosystem complexity. Using novel long‐term experimental deletions of two mussel species, I found that a multi‐species Markov chain model, which was parameterized under non‐experimental conditions, accurately predicted the effects of local extinction in an intertidal community. Systematically deleting species from the model predicted declining ecosystem biomass with reduced biodiversity, but relatively constant ecosystem resilience following disturbance. The effects of reduced biodiversity on these variables ranged widely, illustrating the need for species‐specific predictions of extinction effects. The results show that Markov chain models can be useful tools for predicting consequences of local species extinction without extensive experimentation.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.