Phylogenetic niche conservatism and variations in species diversity–climate relationships

Although contemporary climate has been identified as one of the major determinants large-scale species diversity patterns, its effect on greatly varies among clades. Understanding drivers variation in diversity–climate relationships (DCRs) across clades, which is critical for developing general mechanisms underlying effects remains a current challenge. Using newly compiled distribution data 914 Rosaceae China and dated genus-level phylogeny, we first assessed DCRs entire family, two growth forms (woody versus herbaceous), each genus separately, then explored different We found that significantly differed between woody herbaceous plants genera this family. Closely related had more similar patterns than expected. Both ancestral niches discrepancy explained variations DCR slopes with high explanatory power, indicating niche conservatism DCRs. Our study suggests driver enhances our understanding patterns.