In their study of diversity and stability in grassland ecosystems, Tilman and his colleagues found that higher species richness in their plots had what effect on stability and productivity?
A) All aspects of both stability and productivity increased.
B) All aspects of both stability and productivity decreased.
C) Productivity and stability of plant production increased, but species composition was not stable.
D) Productivity increased, but stability of both species composition and plant production decreased.
E) Stability of both plant production and species composition increased, but productivity decreased.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The study by Tilman and colleagues found that higher species richness in their plots increased productivity and stability of plant production, but species composition was not stable. This is consistent with the concept of the insurance hypothesis, where higher biodiversity provides a buffer against environmental disturbances and enhances ecosystem stability. However, it also implies that changes in the identity of the species in the community may occur over time.

In Their Study of Diversity and Stability in Grassland Ecosystems