Fig. 5: Temporal variation of γ-diversity (regional richness) as a function of the temporal variation of α-diversity (local richness).
From: Archived natural DNA samplers reveal four decades of biodiversity change across the tree of life
Following the conceptual framework of Blowes et al.21, Δα < Δγ indicates spatial differentiation of community composition, whereas Δα > Δγ corresponds to spatial homogenization. The significance of the multidecadal variations of α- and γ-diversities of different communities associated with natural DNA sampler organisms from the ESB was assessed by measuring deviations from null expectations generated using the dynamic model for community assembly. Taxonomic groups are represented by different colours. Shapes refer to sampled species with their size indicating the significance level of Δα and Δγ.
