Evolutionary origins override contemporary environmental filtering in shaping terrestrial algae diversity

An understanding of mechanisms that influence biogeographical patterns can play a pivotal role in deciphering the intricate dynamics underlying species distributions and, ultimately, biodiversity patterns. Biodiversity composition results from both evolutionary origins and contemporary processes. However, how this combination jointly shapes biodiversity patterns and operates through mechanistic links to real-world evidence generally has been overlooked. Using the information on microalgae that comprise the phyllosphere biota that grow on the surface of the leaves of terrestrial plants in China, we quantitatively evaluate the role of contemporary and phylogenetic processes in influencing species adaptability and their persistence across landscapes. Through biodiversity modeling, this study separates the effects of phylogenetic and contemporary factors affecting the community structure of these algal communities. Results demonstrate that the evolutionary history of these terrestrial algae can exert a dominant influence over contemporary filtering of environmental processes in shaping species diversity and community structure. These results underscore the significance of integrating evolutionary origins into biodiversity modeling to more accurately understand current biodiversity patterns and, therefore, facilitate more effective biodiversity management and ecosystem conservation efforts.