Synthesizing available knowledge is the critical first step for characterizing the role of herbivore diversity in tundra ecosystems at a circumpolar scale. Synthesizing existing evidence (WP1a) will help assess the generalizability of our current knowledge, while combining the results of individual studies at sites with contrasting herbivore assemblages (WP1b) will allow assess the role of herbivore diversity on ecosystem functioning. Finally, we will identify areas of high (hotspots) herbivore diversity (WP1c), to aid conservation decisions in tundra ecosystems across the Arctic.
WP1a. Systematic map
The current evidence base of arctic herbivory will be synthesized using a systematic map, a tool that describes the state of knowledge of a topic and assesses what (and how much) has been studied where. Systematic maps follow a strict two-step procedure: first a peer-reviewed protocol for conducting an unbiased systematic search of available evidence is developed, and then this protocol is used to conduct the actual search. WP1a will provide a systematic overview of our current understanding of herbivory in the Arctic, to allow assessing the robustness and generalizability of conclusions about herbivore effects on tundra ecosystems. The systematic map will also identify less studied contexts, allowing for targeted study designs.
WP1a lead: Eeva Soininen
WP1b. Systematic review
In contrast to systematic maps, systematic reviews extract and combine data from multiple studies to answer specific questions. In WP1b, we will use a systematic review to assess the effects of herbivore diversity on the functioning of tundra ecosystems. Focal ecosystem functions will include measures of primary productivity, nutrient cycling and build-up of nutrient pools. Ideally, a range of ecosystem processes will be examined to estimate ecosystem multifunctionality, but the processes included will ultimately depend on what has been measured in the primary research.
WP1b lead: Isabel C Barrio
WP1c. Hotspots analysis
The identification of areas of exceptionally high herbivore diversity in the Arctic or those containing unique herbivore assemblages can help design stronger conservation strategies by focusing conservation efforts into more ecologically diverse areas, which are expected to be more resilient to change. WP1c will integrate information on herbivore diversity, ecosystem function and rapid change to map potential areas of conservation priority in the Arctic. By integrating information on herbivore diversity with areas that have changed most rapidly over the last decades, for example in terms of greatest changes in biomass productivity as approximated by the Normalized Vegetation Difference Index (NDVI) or the areas that have experienced the greatest warming, we will be able to delineate regions that are of greatest conservation and research value.
WP1c lead: David Hik