Restored tallgrass prairies have reduced phylogenetic diversity compared with remnants

摘要: Summary Ecological restoration is critical for mitigating habitat loss and providing ecosystem services. However, restorations often have lower diversity than remnant, reference sites. Phylogenetic an important component of biodiversity function that has only recently been used to evaluate outcomes. To move towards prediction in the biodiversity, it necessary understand how phylogenetic compares with sites, where deficits are found, factors constraining diversity. We quantified plant taxonomic eastern tallgrass prairie, one most endangered ecosystems on earth. We measured at large (site) small (plot) scales 19 restored prairies compared patterns those from 41 remnant prairies. environmental conditions management actions influence outcomes, we tested effects soil properties seed mix composition restorations. Restored were less phylogenetically diverse remnants both spatial scales. On other hand, total species richness did not significantly differ, but had higher native richness. Restored communities taxonomically distinct remnants. Soil (moisture pH) influenced composition. There positive relationships between mixes resulting planted assemblages (excluding volunteer species). Species more closely related expected by chance, several clades found missing mixes. Synthesis applications. prairies, which may contribute widely observed phenomenon being functionally equivalent It encouraging efforts predicted assemblages. This indicates designing beneficial. In addition, sites could be added new or existing reduce gaps diversity. Further work needed advance biodiversity.