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Myxomycetes within the scope of the Island Biogeography Theory
Steven L. Stephenson, Carlos Rojas
MycoAsia 2025/05.
https://doi.org/10.59265/mycoasia.2025-05
Abstract
Myxomycete data compiled from twelve different investigations on oceanic islands in different parts of the world were analyzed. The objective was to contextualize the potential application of some theoretical insights on the interpretation of the mechanisms responsible for the distribution of myxomycetes. Results presented herein suggest that island age could be a factor of importance in the distribution of myxomycetes, as proposed by current models of island biogeography. In general, tropical/ subtropical islands have a more similar myxobiota than islands in temperate/ subantarctic environments, which can be related to the high dispersal capability of common morphospecies and greater availability of substrate types in the tropical ecosystems. The observed species-to-genus ratios were highly overestimated by comparison with a known probabilistic model, which may support the idea of long-distance dispersal on islands as a primary mechanism of colonization.
Plain Language Summary
By analyzing data from twelve oceanic islands, scientists studied how slime molds (myxomycetes) are distributed across the globe. They found that the age of an island plays a role in its slime mold community. Tropical islands tend to have more similar species compared to those in colder climates, likely due to better dispersal conditions and more available habitat. The evidence strongly supports the idea that slime molds are excellent long-distance travelers, capable of crossing vast oceans to colonize isolated islands. This research helps confirm general theories about how life spreads to remote locations.
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