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Network analyses reveal the role of large snakes in connecting feeding guilds in a species-rich Amazonian snake community
  • Daniela Coelho,
  • Marcio Martins,
  • Paulo Guimarães Jr.
Daniela Coelho
Universidade de São Paulo

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Marcio Martins
Universidade de Sao Paulo
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Paulo Guimarães Jr.
Universidade de Sao Paulo
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Abstract

In ecological communities, interactions between consumers and resources lead to the emergence of ecological networks and a fundamental problem to solve is to understand which factors shape network structure. Empirical and theoretical studies on ecological networks suggest predator body size is a key factor structuring patterns of interaction. Because larger predators consume a wider resource range, including the prey consumed by smaller predators, we hypothesized that variation in body size favors the rise of nestedness. In contrast, if resource consumption requires specific adaptations, predators are expected to consume distinct sets of resources, thus favouring modularity. We investigate these predictions by characterising the trophic network of a species-rich Amazonian snake community (62 species). Our results revealed an intricate network pattern resulting from larger species feeding on higher diversity of prey, promoting nestedness, and specific lifestyles feeding on distinct resources, promoting modularity. Species removal simulations indicated that the nested structure is favored mainly by the presence of five species of the family Boidae, which because of their body size and generalist lifestyles connect modules in the network. Our study highlights the particular ways traits affect the structure of interactions among consumers and resources at the community level.
23 Dec 2020Submitted to Ecology and Evolution
29 Dec 2020Submission Checks Completed
29 Dec 2020Assigned to Editor
04 Jan 2021Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
21 Jan 2021Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
01 Mar 20211st Revision Received
02 Mar 2021Submission Checks Completed
02 Mar 2021Assigned to Editor
02 Mar 2021Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
03 Mar 2021Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
03 Mar 20212nd Revision Received
05 Mar 2021Submission Checks Completed
05 Mar 2021Assigned to Editor
05 Mar 2021Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
17 Mar 2021Editorial Decision: Accept