How Life Increases Biodiversity: An Autocatalytic Hypothesis

Organisms and their interactions create and maximize biodiversity, with natural selection favoring the increase. Species are ecosystem engineers, mutualism and commensalism are common, and competition leads to evolutionary innovation. Plants are ecosystem engineers that have made Earth more favorable to life and increased diversity. Herbivores and predators increase the diversity of the species they consume, and decomposers are essential to ecosystem health.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book makes a compelling argument that organisms and their interactions play a crucial role in creating and maximizing biodiversity. It presents a well-supported autocatalytic hypothesis that explains how biodiversity arises through self-reinforcing processes. Natural selection favors the increase of biodiversity, as organisms with diverse traits are better equipped to survive and reproduce in changing environments.

Organisms can be causative agents of significant macroevolutionary transitions, leading to the emergence of new species and adaptations. Species tend to have a net positive effect on biodiversity, contributing to the overall health and stability of ecosystems. Mutualism and commensalism, which involve interspecific interactions, are common and fundamental, and they frequently generate enormous increases in biodiversity.

Contrary to popular belief, competition does not necessarily decrease biodiversity, but rather can lead to evolutionary innovation. Plants, as ecosystem engineers, have played a significant role in making Earth more favorable to life and increasing diversity in numerous ways. Herbivores and predators increase the diversity of the species they consume, contributing to ecosystem stability. Decomposers, essential for nutrient cycling, play a vital role in ecosystem health.

These examples highlight the central theme of this book: organisms and their interactions stimulate biodiversity, and ecosystems maximize it. By challenging established paradigms and presenting a novel perspective on biodiversity, this book encourages deeper discussions and understanding of the complex web of life.

This book offers valuable insights into the mechanisms driving biodiversity and its importance for the sustainability of our planet. It is a must-read for researchers, students, and anyone interested in the natural world and the role of organisms in shaping our environment.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367631345