Moth Impact on Forest Birds
Author Information
Author(s): Mahtab Yazdanian, Tuomas Kankaanpää, Thomas Merckx, Ida-Maria Huikkonen, Juhani Itämies, Jukka Jokimäki, Aleksi Lehikoinen, Reima Leinonen, Juha Pöyry, Pasi Sihvonen, Anna Suuronen, Panu Välimäki, Sami M. Kivelä
Primary Institution: University of Oulu
Hypothesis
Does moth abundance drive the population dynamics of insectivorous birds in the north-boreal zone?
Conclusion
The study found that moth abundance positively affects the biomass of certain bird species in the north-boreal zone, but not in other regions.
Supporting Evidence
- Bird populations in the north-boreal zone showed a time lag response to moth abundance.
- Positive associations were found between adult/egg-overwintering moths and long-distance migrant birds.
- Negative associations were observed between larval-overwintering moths and some bird species.
Takeaway
More moths mean more birds in the north, but this doesn't happen everywhere.
Methodology
The study used long-term monitoring datasets and joint dynamic species distribution models to analyze the relationship between moth and bird biomass.
Potential Biases
Potential biases from habitat differences between moth and bird monitoring sites.
Limitations
The study may not account for all ecological factors affecting bird populations, and results are specific to the north-boreal region.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on forest birds and moths in Finland, specifically in the north-boreal zone.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0002
Confidence Interval
99.8%
Statistical Significance
p<0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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