Life, as the saying goes, finds a way. A recent study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals a "simple rule" governing the distribution of life on Earth.
Researchers from the UK, Sweden, and Spain examined diverse life forms across various biomes. These included amphibians, birds, dragonflies, mammals, rays, reptiles, and trees. Despite the varied mobility strategies of these species, the study found a consistent pattern.
The rule suggests that in any terrestrial or marine region, most species concentrate in small areas and then spread outwards. As they move away from these "hotspots," fewer species can thrive.
This pattern aligns with the concept of "environmental filtering," a key ecological principle explaining species distribution. The study confirms this principle across numerous organisms and on a global scale.
These central "nuclei" offer optimal conditions for species survival and diversification, acting as a biodiversity source. Protecting these core areas is crucial for conservation efforts.
The existence of a universal organizing mechanism has profound implications for understanding life on Earth. It could help scientists trace life's diversification over time and offer insights into how ecosystems might respond to global environmental changes.