Question

\(\beta\)-diversity quantifies the difference in species composition between two ecological communities. Which one of the following statements is correct about \(\beta\)-diversity?

• A. Only nestedness affects \(\beta\)-diversity.
• B. Only species turnover affects \(\beta\)-diversity.
• C. Both nestedness and species turnover affect \(\beta\)-diversity.
• D. Neither nestedness nor species turnover affects β-diversity.

Hint:

(\beta\)-diversity is determined by both nestedness and species turnover, which together quantify the difference in species composition between communities.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding \(\beta\)-diversity.
\(\beta\)-diversity refers to the variation in species composition between two ecological communities. It is determined by both nestedness (the sharing of species between communities) and species turnover (the replacement of species between communities).

Step 2: Explanation of each option.
(A) Nestedness refers to the pattern where species in one community are a subset of species in another community. However, \(\beta\)-diversity also involves species turnover. (B) Species turnover is a key factor in \(\beta\)-diversity but does not alone account for all the variations between communities. (C) Both nestedness and species turnover are key contributors to \(\beta\)-diversity, making this option correct. (D) This statement is incorrect as both nestedness and species turnover contribute to \(\beta\)-diversity.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C), as both nestedness and species turnover affect \(\beta\)-diversity.