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Citation
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HERO ID
3546864
Reference Type
Journal Article
Subtype
Letter
Title
Light asymmetry explains the effect of nutrient enrichment on grassland diversity
Author(s)
Demalach, N; Zaady, E; Kadmon, R
Year
2017
Is Peer Reviewed?
Yes
Journal
Ecology Letters
ISSN:
1461-023X
EISSN:
1461-0248
Volume
20
Issue
1
Page Numbers
60-69
Language
English
PMID
27933739
DOI
10.1111/ele.12706
Web of Science Id
WOS:000390026200006
Abstract
One of the most ubiquitous patterns in plant ecology is species loss following nutrient enrichment. A common explanation for this universal pattern is an increase in the size asymmetry of light partitioning (the degree to which large plants receive more light per unit biomass than smaller plants), which accelerates the rates of competitive exclusions. This 'light asymmetry hypothesis' has been confirmed by mathematical models, but has never been tested in natural communities due to the lack of appropriate methodology for measuring the size asymmetry of light partitioning in natural communities. Here, we use a novel approach for quantifying the asymmetry of light competition which is based on measurements of the vertical distribution of light below the canopy. Using our approach, we demonstrate that an increase in light asymmetry is the main mechanism behind the negative effect of nutrient enrichment on species richness. Our results provide a possible explanation for one of the main sources of contemporary species loss in terrestrial plant communities.
Tags
NAAQS
•
ISA NOxSOxPM Ecology (2018)
Cited in the Second Draft
Appendix 6
•
ISA NOxSOxPM Ecology (2020- Final Project Page)
Cited
Appendix 6
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