Broad‐scale patterns of geographic avoidance between species emerge in the absence of fine‐scale mechanisms of coexistence

Aim The need to forecast range shifts under future climate change has motivated an increasing interest in better understanding the role of biotic interactions driving diversity patterns. contribution shaping broad-scale species distributions is, however, still debated, partly due difficulty detecting their effects. We aim test whether spatial exclusion between potentially competing can be detected at scale, and this pattern relates fine-scale mechanisms coexistence. Location Western Palearctic. Methods develop evaluate a measure geographic avoidance that uses outputs distribution models quantify patterns expected if interspecific competition affects distributions. apply 10 Palearctic bat belonging four morphologically similar cryptic groups which is likely occur. compare null based on pairs virtual expectations ecological similarity coexistence mechanisms. project changes suitability taking into account effects avoidance. Results Values were above for two pairs, suggesting could have contributed These showed highest levels no trophic or habitat partitioning. Considering modified predictions suitability. Main conclusions Our results support limiting ranges absence This study highlights importance incorporating predictive change, further integration community ecology with understand biogeography.