Competition, a major factor structuring seaweed communities
Edwards, M.S.; Connell, S.D. (2012). Competition, a major factor structuring seaweed communities, in: Wiencke, C. et al. Seaweed biology: Novel insights into ecophysiology, ecology and utilization. Ecological Studies, 219: pp. 135-156. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-28451-9_7 In: Wiencke, C.; Bischof, K. (Ed.) (2012). Seaweed biology: Novel insights into ecophysiology, ecology and utilization. Ecological Studies, 219. Springer-Verlag: Berlin, Heidelberg. ISBN 978-3-642-28450-2. xiii, 510 pp. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-28451-9, more In: Heldmaier, G. et al. (Ed.) Ecological Studies. Springer: Heidelberg; Berlin. ISSN 0070-8356; e-ISSN 2196-971X, more |  |
| Authors | | Top | - Edwards, M.S.
- Connell, S.D.
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| Abstract | Competition among marine macroalgae for light, space, and nutrients can be a deterministic force in establishing biogeographic patterns of species distribution and abundance, regulating growth and reproduction, governing how populations respond to disturbances, and structuring coastal ecosystems. However, the direction, strength, and importance of these interactions vary considerably with species identity, location, and time that these interactions take place, and with changes to the physical and biological environment. As a result, many species have evolved special morphologies and/or life history traits that enable them to better access these resources and thus outcompete their neighbors, but these traits often come with trade-offs that may make them more susceptible to environmental stressors. Here, we review some of the main concepts related to how macroalgae compete for resources and provide case studies that demonstrate the importance of competition in structuring benthic communities. |
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