Dominated taxonomic and phylogenetic turnover but functional nestedness of wetland bird beta diversity in North China

Abstract

Decomposition of taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional beta diversity into their turnover and nestedness component could provide novel insight for biodiversity conservation, e.g., provide implications for the Single Large Or Several Small reserves debate (SLOSS debate). This study applied this beta diversity decomposition in wetland bird communities in North China, aiming to propose scientific and comprehensive suggestions for bird diversity conservation in this region. Paired t test was used to compare the differences between taxonomic, phylogenetic, functional turnover and their nestedness component. In addition, spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the associations between each explanatory variable and each beta diversity index. The results showed that taxonomic and phylogenetic beta diversity among wetland bird communities in North China was dominated by turnover, while functional beta diversity was dominated by nestedness. Importantly, the phylogenetic and functional results showed similar patterns even after control the effects of taxonomic beta diversity. In addition, the taxonomic and phylogenetic turnover was more associated with both climate variables and spatial distances than other component. The contrasting patterns between taxonomic, phylogenetic decomposition and functional decomposition of wetland bird communities in North China indicate that distinctive conservation strategies should be considered for different biodiversity dimensions. Specifically, the conservation of taxonomic and phylogenetic bird diversity in this region should focus on multiple wetlands, while the conservation of bird functional diversity should focus on single wetland with high functional diversity.