Interactions between global change components drive plant species richness patterns within communities in mountain grasslands independently of topography

• DOI: 10.1111/jvs.12683
• Publication Date: 2018-09-24T17:15:21Z
• Authors: Antonio Rodríguez; Xavier de Lamo; Maria‐Teresa Seba...
• Keywords: Fragmentation; Global Change

Abstract Questions How do interactions between global change factors (climate and land use, including livestock management) shape plant species richness patterns in mountain grassland communities? Does topography interact with to modulate their effect on within‐community diversity? Location Pyrenees, Spain. Methods We used an initial set of 20 predictors: climatic, biogeographic, management topographic. Our data included a wide range climatic conditions from mediterranean alpine environments. After variable selection procedure random forest, we built GLM explain communities through 100‐m 2 plots (SR100), employing backward–forward AIC other techniques. Results The main filters SR100 were the regional biogeography, 23% 17%, respectively, total contribution SR100), followed by (14%) (9%). Interactions biogeographic variables almost as important effects (18%). Fragmentation higher under low mean minimum temperatures summer precipitation compared conditions. Connectivity interacted most variables. Moderately high stocking rates mitigated community losses triggered decreased connectivity. Sheep‐grazed had lower than differently managed grasslands fragmentation scenarios; conversely, sheep grazing enhanced when was high. Topographic predictors accounted for variability independent these. Conclusions Several multi‐scale spatial determine interacting complex processes. Climate can enhance negative lack connectivity stressful Livestock modified impact patch disaggregation SR100.