Coevolution increases robustness to extinctions in mutualistic but not antagonistic communities

Abstract

Co-extinctions may exacerbate the current biodiversity crisis. Yet, we do not understand all the factors that shape the robustness of communities to the loss of species. Here we analyse how coevolution influences the robustness of mutualistic and antagonistic communities. We find that coevolution increases robustness in mutualism but reduces it in antagonism. These differences are due to coevolution altering the density of interactions in communities. The largest changes to robustness occur when coevolutionary selection is strong. Yet, the effect size of coevolution on robustness depends on the size of the community. Our results may broaden the suite of mechanisms affecting the resilience of ecological communities. These insights may inform efforts to reduce the risk of species loss in the face of global change.