Intraspecific trait variability matters

Abstract Intraspecific trait variability ( ITV ) plays a central part in various ecological processes, though using mean trait values may be sufficient in some instances. Ecologists need thus to find under which circumstances. Carlucci et al. (2014, this issue) bring new evidence on the importance of ITV for community assembly across a strong gradient. Sampling design may affect ITV quantification across gradients.