Ecological effects of El Niño in terrestrial ecosystems of western South America

摘要: I make a summary review of how El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) determines peculiar atmospheric and oceanographic conditions in western South America, thus affecting precipitation patterns adjacent land masses, with cascading effects on marine terrestrial plants, sea birds, mammals. With regard to ecosystems, discuss the following biotic responses Nino-driven precipitation: 1) aboveground vegetation flushes immediately among herbs but not shrubs. 2) The seed bank is quickly replenished ephemeral seeds, perennial seeds recover one year later. 3) Small rodents Irrupt within months Nino arrival, larger ones take full increase. 4) Predator numbers lag behind their mammal prey, smaller predators responding more quickly. Considering these responses, offer simplified model bottom-up control ecosystems America. Apart from direct links already described, there weak feedback loop between plant compartments (vegetation seeds) herbivores: primary productivy driving force, little affected by herbivory. Another feedbaek herbivores predators: latter seem just “surf” over prey levels, skimming excess prey.