Why Is the Edge Effect Important

Increased availability of light to plants along the edges allows more plants to be supported (greater diversity) and increases productivity. Increased plant diversity increases herbivorous insects, which increases birds, and ultimately predators.

Why is the edge effect important for wildlife?

In some cases edges can be an important component of wildlife habitat in an area because edges may have characteristics that differ from adjoining habitat types. … These climatic changes may help increase the width of the surrounding ecotone and affect movement of habitat elements from one habitat into the other.

What do your results tell you about the effect of edges on diversity?

Our results indicate that forest edge creation can reduce diversity beyond species composition and richness and highlight the need to reduce edge creation and buffer existing edges for biodiversity conservation in forest ecosystems.