Abstract
The general aim of this project is to explore effects of biodiversity loss and eutrophication on local diversity processes, trophic interactions and ecosystem function. Specifically, I will examine multi-trophic effects of community complexity and resource availability on biodiversity and productivity by exposing macroalgal communities in different states of succession to artificial nutrient/light conditions and manipulate grazer/predator presence. Although coastal eutrophication changes both light and nutrient availability, existing experimental studies mainly manipulate nutrient load only. Moreover, macroalgae have a fundamental role as basic habitat for many associated organisms but there are few studies that address effects on biodiversity by habitat change over more than one trophic level. The combined influence of light and nutrients should promote strong interactions on local diversity and trophic processes, since they set different limits on plant growth and determine the quality of organic matter transfer to higher trophic levels. Recent research also suggests that diversity in one trophic level influences diversity processes and productivity at other trophic levels. It is therefore essential that we explore relationships between diversity at different trophic levels and the impact of plant resource composition and trophic interactions on local diversity processes, to detect possible cascade effects of eutrophication on ecosystem function and biodiversity.
Sweden