🎉 New paper out! 🪸🌊
Using rocky reefs as a model and a new organising framework, we show heterogeneity effects depend on: 1) how heterogeneity is generated and measured: 2) the traits of responding organisms; and 3) environmental stress
@jngriffy.bsky.social @swanseauni.bsky.social
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Resolving the context-dependency of local heterogeneity–#diversity relationships across rocky reefs worldwide
#EvidenceSynthesis #ProcB royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/... #OpenAccess
Using previous work (McCoy & Bell, Stein, Loke et al.) we linked ‘heterogeneity facets’ with ‘heterogeneity metrics’, which allowed to synthesise information across >100 terms used for heterogeneity into six parsimonious ‘facets’.
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Using this framework, we found that
✅ 3D structures (like rugose reefs, kelp canopies) had the strongest positive effects, mainly by expanding niche space and habitat area.
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May 8, 2025 11:21✅ Small-bodied and mobile species (like microinvertebrates) benefited the most since they can exploit fine-scale structural variation.
Heterogeneity had the clearest effects promoting recruitment and reducing grazing.
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✅ Effects were strongest in stressful environments (like intertidal zones) and on biogenic substrates (like mussel beds or macroalgae).
We also found some interesting latitudinal effects along the way!
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Finally, we produced a conceptual model to promote further hypotheses across systems
✔ Which heterogeneity facets (e.g., 3D vs. 2D) drive outcomes
✔ How species’ traits mediate their response
✔ How broader environmental stress amplifies or dampens effects
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Key takeaways for conservation
→ Focus on preserving & restoring 3D structures as they offer the most biodiversity benefits
→ Prioritize interventions in stressful, variable environments where heterogeneity offers refugia.
→ Tailor actions to the traits and needs of focal species groups.
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