Biodiversity-functioning relationships, interaction with climate change, diversity and stability
A plant community generally consists of many species from multiple functional groups. The role of species richness, evenness and community composition in ecosystem functioning has been under debate for years. The ongoing climate change makes this debate even more relevant: if plant communities that consist of more species provide increased stability, or if specific species are found to be key in buffering the community in the face of a changing climate (including climate extremes and increased pest incidence), then this can have important ecosystem management implications.
PLECO is carrying out research on plant interactions and community changes under different kinds of stresses, including heat waves, droughts, eutrophication and aphid infection.