Non-equilibrium spatial dynamics in finite-size meta-ecosystems

Background/Question/Methods

Ecosystems can be fragmented across landscapes, therefore limiting spatial flows of matter and of organisms. Meta-ecosystem theories can predict non-equilibrium spatial dynamics emerging from the combined movement of individuals and (in)organic matter, but are currently limited to idealized landscapes typically formed of either 2 or of an infinite number of patches. A meta-ecosystem theory of finite-size landscapes is needed, but the challenge is to provide a general description of spatial structure (topology) that can predict their dynamics and function. We present a finite-size meta-ecosystem model and study the relationship between spatial stability and spatial topology.

Results/Conclusions

We show that eigenvalues of the meta-ecosystem connectivity matrix characterize the scale over which disturbances propagate across meta-ecosystems. They can predict, along with their associated eigenvectors, the emergence of non-equilibrium spatial dynamics and its impact on ecosystem functions across scales. Eigenvalues of the meta-ecosystem matrix are shown to be more robust predictors of stability and function of finite-size meta-ecosystems than commonly used topological metrics applied to large networks. Our results reveal the complex spatial dynamics of finite-size ecological systems and point toward robust topological predictors of meta-ecosystem function.