An evolutionary perspective on the response-effect framework

Abstract

The response-effect framework (REF) has provided a foundational approach in functional ecology, using traits to predict how species respond to environmental factors (‘response traits’) and influence ecosystem functioning (‘effect traits’). While highly valuable, the REF has largely overlooked evolutionary dynamics and transgenerational processes, despite growing evidence that these processes significantly shape species' responses to environmental changes and their subsequent ecosystem impacts. Addressing this gap by integrating evolutionary dynamics into the REF can substantially enhance our understanding of both short and long-term biodiversity and ecosystem functioning relationships. Here, we build on recent advances to explore how evolutionary processes and eco-evolutionary feedbacks can refine predictions of trait responses to environmental changes and their ecosystem-level implications. We also highlight experimental evolution as a powerful tool to assess the role of eco-evolutionary dynamics in improving the predictive capacity of the REF. We advocate for greater integration of evolutionary dynamics into the REF to reinforce the applicability of the framework in a rapidly changing world. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.