Pattern formation at multiple spatial scales drives the resilience of mussel bed ecosystems
Liu, Q.X.; Herman, P.M.J.; Mooij, W.M.; Huisman, J.; Scheffer, M.; Olff, H.; de Koppel, J. (2014). Pattern formation at multiple spatial scales drives the resilience of mussel bed ecosystems. Nature Comm. 5: 5234. https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/ncomms6234
Additional data:
In: Nature Communications. Nature Publishing Group: London. ISSN 2041-1723; e-ISSN 2041-1723, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Liu, Q.X., more
- Herman, P.M.J., more
- Mooij, W.M., more
- Huisman, J.
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- Scheffer, M.
- Olff, H.
- de Koppel, J., more
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| Abstract |
Self-organized complexity at multiple spatial scales is a distinctive characteristic of biological systems. Yet, little is known about how different self-organizing processes operating at different spatial scales interact to determine ecosystem functioning. Here we show that the interplay between self-organizing processes at individual and ecosystem level is a key determinant of the functioning and resilience of mussel beds. In mussel beds, self-organization generates spatial patterns at two characteristic spatial scales: small-scale net-shaped patterns due to behavioural aggregation of individuals, and large-scale banded patterns due to the interplay of between-mussel facilitation and resource depletion. Model analysis reveals that the interaction between these behavioural and ecosystem-level mechanisms increases mussel bed resilience, enables persistence under deteriorating conditions and makes them less prone to catastrophic collapse. Our analysis highlights that interactions between different forms of self-organization at multiple spatial scales may enhance the intrinsic ability of ecosystems to withstand both natural and human-induced disturbances. |
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