Mechanisms underlying effects of land use on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning

Land-use intensification changes how species compete with each other and reduces coexistence. Structural equation models show this loss of biodiversity from one trophic level often cascades up to higher levels, meaning a loss of plant species causes losses of herbivores and predators. This loss of biodiversity has consequences and is a major mechanism driving land use effects on ecosystem functioning and services. The unique datasets and approach of the Biodiversity Explanatories allow us to uncover mechanisms by which global change affects ecosystems and therefore to better predict and manage its impacts.