Disturbance-generated niche-segregation in a structured metapopulation model

Question: Does limiting similarity apply for coexistence maintained by disturbance in a metapopulation? Methods: In contrast to patch occupancy modeling, we follow both local- and metapopulation-scale dynamics explicitly. The theory of structured metapopulations is used for this purpose. Adaptive dy-namics is employed to study evolution. Key assumptions: Local catastrophes at a given rate. Fixed dis-persal rate, trade-off between fecundity and local competitivity. Results: Coexistence of a few (up to 5), but not more species is observed. They are distinctly different along the trade-off variable and partition the patch-age axis. Series of evolutionary branchings leads to an evolutionary stable coalition. Conclusions: The usual niche theoretical picture of decreased com-petition with increased differentiation applies. The patch-age is the proper niche axis. Niche differentiation along this axis is the require-ment of coexistence. Constraints of coexistence is overlooked in patch occupancy models