Insects communicate through vibrations that travel through plant stems and leaves, creating a largely hidden sensory world that may play an important role in shaping ecological communities. We are testing whether the physical architecture of vegetation creates distinct vibrational communication spaces that allow more insect species to coexist. By combining field experiments that manipulate plant architecture with vibrational recordings, insect surveys, and LiDAR measurements of three-dimensional habitat structure, we will determine how this overlooked dimension of habitat influences insect diversity. Ultimately, this research will reveal new ways that the physical structure of ecosystems helps generate and maintain biodiversity.
Kasey Fowler-Finn, Cristy Portales-Reyes, Lee Gath, Kim A. Medley