Edge responses are different in edges under natural versus anthropogenic influence: a meta-analysis using ground beetles.

ABSTRACT: Most edges are anthropogenic in origin, but are distinguishable by their maintaining processes (natural vs. continued anthropogenic interventions: forestry, agriculture, urbanization). We hypothesized that the dissimilar edge histories will be reflected in the diversity and assemblage composition of inhabitants. Testing this "history-based edge effect" hypothesis, we evaluated published information on a common insect group, ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in forest edges. A meta-analysis showed that the diversity-enhancing properties of edges significantly differed according to their history. Forest edges maintained by natural processes had significantly higher species richness than their interiors, while edges with continued anthropogenic influence did not. The filter function of e

SUBMITTER: Magura T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5288263 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature