The evolutionary consequences of indirect effects
2013
Walsh, Matthew R.
Indirect effects occur when the effect of one species on another is mediated by a third species or through other links in the ecosystem. Indirect interactions are widespread in nature with effects on the properties of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Despite their far-reaching ecological relevance, the evolutionary importance of indirect effects has only recently garnered attention. Here I highlight recent research illustrating significant evolutionary consequences of indirect effects. These studies span field and laboratory studies as well as terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. I argue that these results provide a blueprint that future research can utilize to evaluate the link between the ecological community and evolution and, thereby, improve the predictive power of evolution in a natural setting.
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