Human-Mediated Dispersal and the Rewiring of Spatial Networks

Citation

Bullock JM, Bonte D, Pufal G, da Silva Carvalho C, Chapman DS, García C, García D, Matthysen E & Delgado MM (2018) Human-Mediated Dispersal and the Rewiring of Spatial Networks. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 33 (12), pp. 958-970. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2018.09.008

Abstract
Humans fundamentally affect dispersal, directly by transporting individuals and indirectly by altering landscapes and natural vectors. This human-mediated dispersal (HMD) modifies long-distance dispersal, changes dispersal paths, and overall benefits certain species or genotypes while disadvantaging others. HMD is leading to radical changes in the structure and functioning of spatial networks, which are likely to intensify as human activities increase in scope and extent. Here, we provide an overview to guide research into HMD and the resulting rewiring of spatial networks, making predictions about the ecological and evolutionary consequences and how these vary according to spatial scale and the traits of species. Future research should consider HMD holistically, assessing the range of direct and indirect processes to understand the complex impacts on eco-evolutionary dynamics.

Keywords
eco-evolutionary dynamics; green infrastructure; habitat fragmentation; human-altered dispersal; human-vectored dispersal; non-native species

Journal
Trends in Ecology & Evolution: Volume 33, Issue 12

People

Dr Daniel Chapman

Senior Lecturer, Biological and Environmental Sciences