Invaders of pollination networks in the Galápagos Islands: emergence of novel communities

Alien species, particularly insects, are significantly reshaping pollination networks in the Galápagos Islands, increasing network stability while potentially introducing vulnerabilities. The study found that 20% of species (60 plants and 220 pollinators) were aliens, involved in 38% of interactions, with alien insects like dipterans, hymenopterans, and lepidopterans forming more links than native or non-endemic species. These invaders acted as 'island hubs,' infiltrated all network modules, and accounted for 38% of connectors, enhancing network cohesiveness. While this may increase resistance to species loss, it could also heighten susceptibility to diseases. The research analyzed data from five Galápagos islands, revealing profound structural changes in pollination networks due to invasions.

Traveset, A., Heleno, R., Chamorro, S., Vargas, P., McMullen, C. K., Castro-Urgal, R., Nogales, M., Herrera, H. W., & Olesen, J. M. (2013). Invaders of pollination networks in the Galápagos Islands: emergence of novel communities. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 280(1758), 20123040. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2012.3040