Assessing the impact of taxon resolution on network structure, with implication for comparative ecology

Abstract

Constructing networks has become an indispensable approach in understanding how different taxa interact. However, methodologies vary widely among studies, potentially limiting our ability to meaningfully compare results. In particular, how network architecture is influenced by the extent to which nodes are resolved to either taxa or taxonomic units is poorly understood. To address this, here we collate nine datasets of ecological interactions, from both observations and DNA metabarcoding, and construct networks under a range of commonly-used node resolutions. We demonstrate that small changes in node resolution can cause wide variation in almost all key metric values, including robustness and nestedness. Moreover, relative values of metrics such as robustness were seen to fluctuate continuously with node resolution, thereby potentially confounding comparisons of networks, as well as interpretations concerning their constituent ecological interactions. These findings highlight the need for care when comparing networks, especially where these differ with respect to node resolution.\n\nStatement of authorshipDRHB, SJR and ELC conceived of the project, DRHB facilitated fieldwork in Malaysia, DRHB, HFMO and ELC undertook field collections, DRHB, SCLC and HFMO analysed the data, and DRHB wrote the manuscript with input from all authors.\n\nData Accessibility StatementAll data used in this analysis will be archived in Dryad and made available by DOI. Specific analysis scripts are available on GitHub with links given in the manuscript.