Density dependence on multiple spatial scales maintains spatial variation in both abundance and traits (Q2308853)

The study shows how long-term differences in abundance can occur in two mutually influencing patches, even in the absence of external differences between them. Therefore, the authors focus on studying the influence of patches on the physical form of each other. The model developed also includes the possibility of a positive density dependence, which can occur if the adjacent plot attracts pollinators. Investing in protection from predators versus investing in attracting pollinators may then be a choice depending on density. However, the chosen investment strategy affects density, thereby leading to eco-evolutionary dynamics. It was used a system of ordinary differential equations (ODE) to assess whether a multiscale density dependence can lead to long-term density differences between two identical patches, initially without migration between them and without evolution. Thus, the model can compare the formation of spatial density patterns in the absence and in the presence of evolution. In addition, the conditions are derived under which the model can lead to diversification of characteristics, in particular, to allopatric diversification. Finally, the robustness of the results is checked when some conditions are relaxed, for example small amounts of migration are included in the model. A stochastic individual model with multilocus genetics has also been developed to test how ecological and eco-evolutionary outcomes are influenced by demographic stochasticity and changes in genetic architecture.