Abstract
Ecosystem functions are natural processes that sustain ecosystem productivity, directly and indirectly
benefiting humanity. I investigated how multiple components of biodiversity can influence such
ecosystem functions by using dung beetles as a model study system. With a multi-level metaanalysis,
I found that dung beetles increased a single ecosystem function, plant growth, by 17%
overall. Furthermore, the dung beetle–plant growth relationship was influenced by beetle density.
Then, I conducted two glasshouse mesocosm experiments with artificial dung beetle assemblages
and found that overall ecosystem functioning is driven by the additive effects of species evenness,
species identity and total density.
benefiting humanity. I investigated how multiple components of biodiversity can influence such
ecosystem functions by using dung beetles as a model study system. With a multi-level metaanalysis,
I found that dung beetles increased a single ecosystem function, plant growth, by 17%
overall. Furthermore, the dung beetle–plant growth relationship was influenced by beetle density.
Then, I conducted two glasshouse mesocosm experiments with artificial dung beetle assemblages
and found that overall ecosystem functioning is driven by the additive effects of species evenness,
species identity and total density.
| Original language | English |
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| Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
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| Award date | 6 Nov 2024 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Unpublished - 2024 |