Plant–frugivore interactions across the Caribbean islands: Modularity, invader complexes and the importance of generalist species

• DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13636
• Publication Date: 2022-10-12T14:05:35Z
• Authors: Maximilian G. R. ...; Mauro Galetti; Christopher N. Ka...; Benno I. Simmons; Fernando Gonçalves; Alcides L. Morale...; Luis Navarro; Fabio L. Tarazona...; Spencer Schubert; Tomas Carlo; Jackeline Salazar; Michel Faife‐Cabrera; Allan Strong; Hannah Madden; Adam Mitchell; Bo Dalsgaard
• Keywords: Frugivore; Nestedness; Archipelago; Modularity

Abstract Aim Mutualistic interactions between plants and animals are fundamental for the maintenance of natural communities ecosystem services they provide. However, particularly in human‐dominated island ecosystems, introduced species may alter mutualistic interactions. Based on an extensive dataset plant–frugivore interactions, we mapped analysed a meta‐network across Caribbean archipelago. Specifically, searched subcommunity structure (modularity) identified types facilitating integration meta‐network. Location archipelago (Lucayan archipelago, Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles). Methods We reviewed published scientific literature, unpublished theses other nonpeer‐reviewed sources to compile visualized spatial patterns conducted modularity analysis cross‐island also examined which were most likely interact with species: (1) endemic, nonendemic native or species, (2) generalized specialized species. Results reported 3060 records 486 plant 178 frugivore The was organized 13 modules, driven by combination functional taxonomic (modules dominated certain groups frugivores) biogeographical (island‐specific modules) mechanisms. Few interaction pairs shared islands, suggesting little homogenization at regional scale. found evidence “invader complexes,” as frugivores more than expected random. Moreover, generalist Main conclusions These results demonstrate that complexes” facilitate incorporation into communities. Despite influx structured modules related affinities. findings reveal how become integral part systems tropical islands.