Temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass decreases as spatial variability increases.
Ecology
; 97(3): 555-60, 2016 Mar.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-27197382
Ecological theory predicts that diversity decreases variability in ecosystem function. We predict that, at the landscape scale, spatial variability created by a mosaic of contrasting patches that differ in time since disturbance will decrease temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass. Using data from a multi-year study of seven grazed tallgrass prairie landscapes, each experimentally managed for one to eight patches, we show that increased spatial variability driven by spatially patchy fire and herbivory reduces temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass. This pattern is associated with statistical evidence for the portfolio effect and a positive relationship between temporal variability and functional group synchrony as predicted by metacommunity variability theory. As disturbance from fire and grazing interact to create a shifting mosaic of spatially heterogeneous patches within a landscape, temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass can be dampened. These results suggest that spatially heterogeneous disturbance regimes contribute to a portfolio of ecosystem functions provided by biodiversity, including wildlife habitat, fuel, and forage. We discuss how spatial patterns of disturbance drive variability within and among patches.
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Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Plantas
/
Ecosistema
Tipo de estudio:
Prognostic_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
País/Región como asunto:
America do norte
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Ecology
Año:
2016
Tipo del documento:
Article
Pais de publicación:
Estados Unidos