Trait‐based ecology of fishes: A quantitative assessment of literature trends and knowledge gaps using topic modelling

• DOI: 10.1111/faf.12399
• Publication Date: 2019-08-22T13:13:56Z
• Authors: Osmar J. Luiz; Julian D. Olden; Mark J. Kennard; David A. Crook; Michael M. Douglas; Thor M. Saunders; Alison J. King
• Keywords: Trait

Abstract Species traits are a new data currency to enhance our understanding of ecological patterns and processes. Trait‐based studies fishes numerous in comparison with other animal groups, reflecting the diversity fish forms functions they provide aquatic ecosystems. We conduct retrospective examination literature identify knowledge gaps guidance for future research trait‐based ecology. apply an automated text mining topic modelling track evolution topics within peer‐reviewed articles functional marine freshwater published over past half century, explore inter‐connections among those emerging avenues investigation. By mapping landscape literature, 16 latent emerged that vary their prevalence. Our results show decline frequency using reproductive model way allocate energy reproduction, increase reporting metrics utilizing concept multivariate space. Research focused on contributions ecosystem functioning also has increased frequency. revealed large information between growing decreasing these were derived from different types being considered. suggest scientists break‐free traditions field by targeting investigations that: (a) broader assortment traits, (b) focus influencing allocation growth/reproduction (c) integrate trophic‐web behavioural topics.