Tree Species Richness Strengthens Relationships between Ants and the Functional Composition of Spider Assemblages in a Highly Diverse Forest

摘要: In species-rich ecosystems, such as subtropical and tropical forests, higher trophic level interactions are key mediators of ecosystem functioning. Plant species loss may alter these interactions, but the effects plant diversity might be modified by intraguild particularly among predators. We analyzed relationships between spiders ants, two dominant predatory arthropod taxa, on tree saplings across a gradient from medium to high woody richness in forest Southeast China. Neither ant nor spider total biomass was significantly related richness. By contrast, distribution web-building hunting changed family increased presence resulting more web builder-dominated assemblages. However, depended communities, were stronger plots with Our results indicate that addition potential ants particular, could indirectly influence within The observed shifts assemblages increasing have functional consequences, distinct prey spectra. spiders, contribute explaining non-significant relationship overall predators previously same plots. findings thus give insight into complexity biotic ecosystems.