Experimental evidence for spatial self-organization and its emergent effects in mussel bed ecosystems.
Spatial self-organization is the main theoretical explanation for the global occurrence of regular or otherwise coherent spatial patterns in ecosystems. Using mussel beds as a model ecosystem, we provide an experimental demonstration of spatial self-organization. Under homogeneous laboratory conditions, mussels developed regular patterns, similar to those in the field. An individual-based model derived from our experiments showed that interactions between individuals explained the observed patterns. Furthermore, a field study showed that pattern formation affected ecosystem-level processes in terms of improved growth and resistance to wave action. Our results imply that spatial self-organization is an important determinant of the structure and functioning of ecosystems, and it needs to be considered in their conservation.
van de Koppel
Johan
J
Spatial Ecology Department, the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Post Office Box 140, 4400 AC Yerseke, Netherlands. J.vandeKoppel@nioo.knaw.nl
Gascoigne
Joanna C
JC
Theraulaz
Guy
G
Rietkerk
Max
M
Mooij
Wolf M
WM
Herman
Peter M J
PM
D000818:Animals; D018533:Biomass; D049872:Bivalvia / Q000502:physiology*; D017753:Ecosystem; D008954:Models, Biological; D009068:Movement; D011157:Population Dynamics; D013037:Spatial Behavior; D014852:Wales