The figure above presents the results of a study of local versus regional bird s

Question

The figure above presents the results of a study of local versus regional bird species richness, for birds and butterflies in a South African forest. Examine the top panel (birds) first, where the curve appears to reach an asymptote. What does this indicate about the processes structuring the bird community?

A It suggests that the communities are unsaturated and that the size of the regional pool determines local species richness

B It suggests that the communities are becoming saturated and that local processes are likely becoming increasingly important

C It does not tell us anything about the relative importance of the regional species pool and local interactions

Now examine the lower panel (butterflies), where the curve continues to rise linearly. What does this indicate about the processes structuring the butterfly community?

A It suggest that the communities are unsaturated and that the size of the regional pool determines local species richness

B It suggests that the communities are becoming saturated and that local processes are likely becoming increasingly important.

C It does not tell us anything about the relative importance of the regional species pool and local interactions

Explanation / Answer

1. It suggests that the communities are unsaturated and that the size of the regional pool determines local species richness

2. It suggests that the communities are unsaturated and that the size of the regional pool determines local species richness

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