Bakkegard and Davenport (2012) stated that distribution patterns of model species is often used for tracking climate change. They further mentioned the qualities of a model species, which are the ff: " An ideal species for such monitoring should: 1) be sensitive to climate flux, 2) be large enough to be easily observed, 3) be unmistakably unique in its identifying characteristics, and 4) have a broadly known (and accessible) baseline distribution record."
Given this, I would like to know if the trophic level of an animal in a community would matter in the said issue. If it does, which trophic level is most reliable for it?
Thank you.
Dear Alessi,
Actually, since you cannot ignore direct or indirect impacts of climate and changes in primary production effects on all trophic levels, I think it does not much matter. Even so you can research the "climate change vulnerability index" for any species in the literature and you can also find the species ranked in "extremely vulnerable" category.
Best,
Your responses are insightful and highly appreciated, Mr. Towe and Mr. Turp. Thank you very much!
Hi Alessi
I recommend you read (full text available from my profile page):
Thackeray S.J.; Sparks, T.H.; Frederiksen, M.; Burthe, S.; Bacon, P.; Bell, J.R.; Botham, M.S.; Brereton, T.M.; Bright, P.W.; Carvalho, L.; Clutton-Brock, T.; Dawson, A.; Edwards, M.; Elliott, J.M.; Harrington, R.; Johns, D.; Jones, I.D.; Jones, J.T.; Leech, D.I.; Roy, D.B.; Scott, W.A.; Smith, M.; Smithers, R.J.; Winfield, I.J. and Wanless, S. (2010) Trophic level asynchrony in rates of phenological change for marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments. Global Change Biology. 16:12, 3304–3013.
Hi Alessi,
I don't think so. You may use a shark or a bivalve to track the changes.
Bakkegard and Davenport (2012) are correct. But you must also explore to generate or discover new knowledge about this topic. Good luck!
I'll look into your suggestions, Mr. Smithers and Mr. Gonzales! Thank you very much for your inputs.
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