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Diversity-function relations are often characterized as type A or type B. Although both show significant relations between diversity and function, type B suggests strong redundancy within the system. Schwartz et al (2002) argue that a type A relation provides a strong basis for conservation, whereas a B relation does not. I suggest that a type B relation can easily become b’ if those species that are most important for function are most sensitive to being lost. Ashley points to one factor that could produce the b’ relation (loss of dominant species). Another would be is species that are on a per unit (e.g., individual/ biomass) basis are most important are also most sensitive. These species might not even need to be dominant for a type b’ relation to occur.

I also was very interest by the idea that really if most relations are type b then the most important question we as conservation scientists should be investigating is whether we are on the asymptotic part of the b curve or more to the left.

Neal Williams