Meta-analysis questions ecosystem redundancy

A meta-analysis published in October 2026 by King's and Imperial Colleges in London challenges the assumption that ecosystems can compensate for biodiversity loss through functional redundancy. The study suggests that the presence of more species provides unique benefits rather than allowing a few to take over.

Study compiles extensive data

The research compiled 423 studies and 222,829 measurement points across four types of environments. It examined 23 categories of ecosystem functions and services, finding that most ecosystem benefits increase with the number of species present.

Findings contradict redundancy theory

Published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, the study indicates that each additional species contributes unique benefits to ecosystem services. This contradicts the idea that multiple species can fulfill the same ecological role, as the research analyzed terrestrial, marine, freshwater, and estuarine environments.

Biodiversity impacts carbon sequestration

Among the 23 categories studied, oceanic carbon sequestration showed the strongest response to biodiversity. Phytoplankton, microbial networks, and marine food chains were found to play significant roles in carbon transfer, highlighting the potential severity of biodiversity loss on ecosystem services.

Consequences of biodiversity loss

The findings suggest that biodiversity loss could have more severe consequences for ecosystem services than previously understood. These include impacts on pollination, water purification, carbon dioxide storage, and biological control, indicating a need for renewed focus on preserving diverse species.