Taking species abundance distributions beyond individuals

  • Hélène M
  • Ethan P
  • Rampal S
  • et al.
N/ACitations
Citations of this article
1Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

The species abundance distribution (SAD) is one of the few universal patterns in ecology. Research on this fundamental distribution has primarily focused on the study of numerical counts, irrespective of the traits of individuals. Here we show that considering a set of Generalized Species Abundance Distributions (GSADs) encompassing several abundance measures, such as numerical abundance, biomass and resource use, can provide novel insights into the structure of ecological communities and the forces that organize them. We use a taxonomically diverse combination of macroecological data sets to investigate the similarities and differences between GSADs. We then use probability theory to explore, under parsimonious assumptions, theoretical linkages among them. Our study suggests that examining different GSADs simultaneously in natural systems may help with assessing determinants of community structure. Broadening SADs to encompass multiple abundance measures opens novel perspectives in biodiversity research and warrants future empirical and theoretical developments.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Hélène, M., Ethan, P. W., Rampal, S. E., Jessica, L. G., Annette, O., David, A., … Tommaso, Z. (2009). Taking species abundance distributions beyond individuals. Ecology Letters, 12(6), 488–501. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1461-0248.2009.01318.x

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free