Water depth modulates the species richness–biomass relationship in submerged macrophytes

The effect of biodiversity on ecosystem productivity has been a controversial issue in ecological research. species richness–productivity relationship is highly variable natural ecosystems, with positive being one the most commonly observed relationships. Previous regional studies from terrestrial ecosystems have demonstrated that environmental gradients can regulate relationship. However, how this varies freshwater across spatial environment remains unclear. In study, we propose be modulated by water depth. Here, surveyed submerged macrophyte community structure establishing 24 transects and 642 quadrats Erhai Lake, Yunnan Plateau, China. Our findings highlight gradually changed slightly to strongly as became more light-limited increasing depth, supporting stress-gradient hypothesis. results study provide new insights into biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationships managing lake communities productivity.