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Science 17 February 2006:
Vol. 311. no. 5763, pp. 1000 - 1002
DOI: 10.1126/science.1121432
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Reports

A Keystone Mutualism Drives Pattern in a Power Function

John Vandermeer1,2* and Ivette Perfecto2

Data that can be described by a power function are ubiquitous in nature. Although there is consensus that such data frequently emerge generally from nonlinear complex systems, a variety of specific mechanisms may be responsible for creating the pattern in particular cases. Here, we report on the distribution of a scale insect (Coccus viridis) that is a common agricultural pest. Its distribution in an organic coffee farm in southern Mexico generally follows a power function, but there are subtle deviations from that function. We offer a biological explanation for both adherence to the power functions and associated deviations, along with supporting evidence.

1 Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
2 School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.

* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: jvander{at}umich.edu

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THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES:
Comment on "A Keystone Mutualism Drives Pattern in a Power Function".
D. Alonso and M. Pascual (2006)
Science 313, 1739b
   Abstract »    Full Text »    PDF »
Comment on "A Keystone Mutualism Drives Pattern in a Power Function".
S. Pueyo and R. Jovani (2006)
Science 313, 1739c
   Abstract »    Full Text »    PDF »
Response to Comments on "A Keystone Mutualism Drives Pattern in a Power Function".
J. Vandermeer and I. Perfecto (2006)
Science 313, 1739d
   Abstract »    Full Text »    PDF »


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Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online)