Patch size and isolation predict plant species density in a naturally fragmented forest.

ABSTRACT: Studies of the effects of patch size and isolation on plant species density have yielded contrasting results. However, much of the available evidence comes from relatively recent anthropogenic forest fragments which have not reached equilibrium between extinction and immigration. This is a critical issue because the theory clearly states that only when equilibrium has been reached can the number of species be accurately predicted by habitat size and isolation. Therefore, species density could be better predicted by patch size and isolation in an ecosystem that has been fragmented for a very long time. We tested whether patch area, isolation and other spatial variables explain variation among forest patches in plant species density in an ecosystem where the forest has been naturally fragmen

SUBMITTER: Munguia-Rosas MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4210240 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature