The Labile Limits of Forbidden Interactions. (September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: González-Varo, Juan P.; Traveset, Anna
• Is Part Of: Trends in ecology & evolution. Volume 31:Number 9(2016)
• Page Start: 700
• Page End: 710
• Publication Date: 2016-09
• Subjects: biotic interactions -- ecological networks -- intraspecific variability -- trait matching; Ecology -- Periodicals; Evolution (Biology) -- Periodicals; 576.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2016.06.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0169-5347

Abstract

Abstract : Forbidden links are defined as pairwise interactions that are prevented by the biological traits of the species. We focus here on the neglected importance of intraspecific trait variation in the forbidden link concept. We show how intraspecific trait variability at different spatiotemporal scales, and through ontogeny, reduces the expected prevalence of forbidden interactions. We also highlight how behavior can foster interactions that, from traits, would be predicted to be forbidden. We therefore discuss the drawbacks of frameworks recently developed to infer biotic interactions using available trait data (mean values). Mispredictions can have disproportionate effects on inferences about community dynamics. Thus, we suggest including intraspecific variability in trait-based models and using them to guide the sampling of real interactions in the field for validation. Trends: Pairwise interactions that are prevented by the biological traits of the species are defined as forbidden links. Recently developed frameworks for inferring biotic interactions rely on the use of available trait information – which normally lacks intraspecific variability and consists of mean values of adult individuals. The predicted prevalence of forbidden links is reduced when considering intraspecific trait variability at different spatiotemporal scales, and through ontogeny. Species interactions that initially appear unlikely from traits can eventually be established at ecological timescales through changes in animal behavior.