Abstract Detail

Ecology

Traveset, Anna [1].

Mutualistic networks in the Galápagos Islands and how alien species modify their structure.

Islands harbor much of the world’s threatened biodiversity, most of which is endangered by habitat degradation, over-exploitation and the introduction of alien invasive species. Increasing evidence confirms that it is not the decline of species diversity per se that scientists, conservationists, and restoration managers should be most concerned about, but rather the extinction of the interactions between organisms that ultimatly breathe life into ecosystems. Consequently, research on species interactions patterns has increased dramatically in recent years, mostly thanks to the implementation of network theory which facilitates the representation and interpretation of such complex Interaction networks. In this talk, I will present our findings on the dynamic structure of mutualistic (pollination and seed dispersal) networks in the Galapagos archipelago, and the mechanisms underlying the observed patterns. I will also deep into the mechanisms whereby alien species infiltrate the mutualistic networks, and discuss the potential cascading effects of invasive alien plants and insects on the native species and interactions.

1 - Spanish Research Council, Imedea, C/ Miquel Marques 21, Esporles, 07190, Spain

Keywords:
ecological networks
pollination
seed dispersal
alien invasives
Galápagos Islands.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 8, Ecology Section - Invasive Species
Location: Sundance 5/Omni Hotel
Date: Monday, June 26th, 2017
Time: 10:45 AM
Number: 8003
Abstract ID:58
Candidate for Awards:None