Phenology determines the robustness of plant–pollinator networks
Author
dc.contributor.author
Ramos Jiliberto, Rodrigo
Author
dc.contributor.author
Moisset de Espanés, Pablo
Author
dc.contributor.author
Franco–Cisterna, Mauricio
Author
dc.contributor.author
Petanidou, Theodora
Author
dc.contributor.author
Vázquez, Diego
Admission date
dc.date.accessioned
2018-12-20T15:25:10Z
Available date
dc.date.available
2018-12-20T15:25:10Z
Publication date
dc.date.issued
2018
Cita de ítem
dc.identifier.citation
Scientific Reports, Volumen 8, Issue 1, 2018.
Identifier
dc.identifier.issn
20452322
Identifier
dc.identifier.other
10.1038/s41598-018-33265-6
Identifier
dc.identifier.uri
https://repositorio.uchile.cl/handle/2250/159176
Abstract
dc.description.abstract
Plant–pollinator systems are essential for ecosystem functioning, which calls for an understanding
of the determinants of their robustness to environmental threats. Previous studies considering such
robustness have focused mostly on species’ connectivity properties, particularly their degree. We
hypothesized that species’ phenological attributes are at least as important as degree as determinants
of network robustness. To test this, we combined dynamic modeling, computer simulation and analysis
of data from 12 plant–pollinator networks with detailed information of topology of interactions as
well as species’ phenology of plant fowering and pollinator emergence. We found that phenological
attributes are strong determinants of network robustness, a result consistent across the networks
studied. Plant species persistence was most sensitive to increased larval mortality of pollinators that
start earlier or fnish later in the season. Pollinator persistence was especially sensitive to decreased
visitation rates and increased larval mortality of specialists. Our fndings suggest that seasonality of
climatic events and anthropic impacts such as the release of pollutants is critical for the future integrity
of terrestrial biodiversity.