RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Analyzing ecological networks of species interactions
JF bioRxiv
FD Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
SP 112540
DO 10.1101/112540
A1 Eva Delmas
A1 Mathilde Besson
A1 Marie-Hélène Brice
A1 Laura A. Burkle
A1 Giulio V. Dalla Riva
A1 Marie-Josée Fortin
A1 Dominique Gravel
A1 Paulo R Guimarães, Jr
A1 David Hembry
A1 Erica Newman
A1 Jens M. Olesen
A1 Mathias M. Pires
A1 Justin D. Yeakel
A1 Timothée Poisot
YR 2018
UL http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2018/03/08/112540.abstract
AB Networks provide one of the best representations for ecological communities, composed of many species with sometimes complex connections between them. Yet the methodological literature allowing one to analyze and extract meaning from ecological networks is dense, fragmented, and unwelcoming. We provide a general overview to the field of using networks in community ecology, outlining both the intent of the different measures, their assumptions, and the contexts in which they can be used. When methodologically justified, we suggest good practices to use in the analysis of ecological networks. We anchor this synopsis with examples from empirical studies, and conclude by highlighting what identified as needed future developments in the field.