Biodiversity–ecosystem function experiments reveal the mechanisms underlying the consequences of biodiversity change in real world ecosystems

摘要: In a recent Forum paper, Wardle (Journal of Vegetation Science, 2016) questions the value biodiversity–ecosystem function (BEF) experiments with respect to their implications for biodiversity changes in real world communities. The main criticism is that previous focus BEF on random species assemblages within each level diversity has ‘limited understanding how natural communities respond loss.’ He concludes broader spectrum approaches considering both non-random gains and losses essential advance this field research. Wardle's paper timely because observations frequent local regional across ecosystems. While we appreciate new complementary experimental are required advancing field, question criticisms regarding validity experiments. Therefore, by briefly reiterating arguments emphasizing reasoning behind composition We describe have identified important mechanisms play role ecosystems, our ecosystem responses losses. discuss examples where theory derived from enriched consequences ecosystems comprehensive analyses integrative modelling confirmed patterns found Finally, provide some promising directions