Non-additive and non-stationary properties in the spatial distribution of a large marine fish population

Abstract

Density-independent and density-dependent variables both affect the spatial distributions of species. However, their effects are often separately addressed using different analytical techniques. We apply a spatially explicit regression framework that incorporates localized, interactive and threshold effects of both density-independent (water temperature) and density-dependent (population abundance) variables, to study the spatial distribution of a well-monitored flatfish population in the eastern Bering Sea. Results indicate that when population biomass was beyond a threshold a further increase in biomass-promoted habitat expansion in a non-additive fashion with water temperature. In contrast, during years of low population size, habitat occupancy was affected positively only by water temperature. These results reveal the spatial signature of intraspecific abundance distribution relationships as well as the non-additive and non-stationary responses of species spatial dynamics. Furthermore, these results underscore the importance of implementing analytical techniques that can simultaneously account for density-dependent and density-independent sources of variability when studying geographical distribution patterns.

Climate and Demography Dictate the Strength of Predator-Prey Overlap in a Subarctic Marine Ecosystem

“…In addition to climate-driven variability, density-dependent (i.e. demographic) variables can affect species spatial dynamics [6]–[8] and thereby impact predator-prey interactions. While much progress has been made towards understanding the causes of changes in species distributions, little is known about how these shifts influence the strength of predator-prey overlap and prey population dynamics.…”

Does spatial variation in environmental conditions affect recruitment? A study using a 3-D model of Peruvian anchovy

“…As a result of sampling methods that can measure environmental and recruitment data with high spatial resolution and the newly developed models, spatial studies have accelerated recently (Houde, 2008;Runge et al, 2010;Chassot et al, 2011;Stuart et al, 2011;Ospina-Álvarez et al, 2013). Increased recognition of the potential importance of complex, spatiotemporal variability in key factors affecting the distribution and recruitment of fish (e.g., Rose, 2000;Ciannelli et al, 2012;Lindegren et al, 2013;Deyle et al, 2013), and the utilization of spatial management measures such as marine protected areas http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pocean.2015.04.002 0079-6611/Ó 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.…”

Interactions among density, climate, and food web effects determine long-term life cycle dynamics of a key copepod

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