Taxonomic homogenization of the global avifauna

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Abstract
Biotic homogenization is seen as the consequence of preferential loss of native species followed by ecological replacement with widespread exotics. Homogenization is not random in its effects on higher taxa. Using Monte Carlo simulations (rather than binomial statistics) we find taxonomic patterns in the risk of extinction and probability of successful introduction among birds. Sixteen avian families selectively contain extinct or threatened birds. Eight avian families selectively contain successfully introduced birds. Eight of these 24 taxonomically selected families have not been identified in previous studies, presumably because they are species-poor. The 22 living taxonomically selected families are classified into four homogenization categories. These categories reflect how extinction and invasion are combining in their effects at the family level. Range size, as indexed by island endemism, and human influence are the primary forces driving taxonomic homogenization patterns among birds. There is no evidence that evolutionary age influences homogenization patterns. Phylogenetic comparative analyses, which explicitly recognize the role of human influence, are needed to elucidate more detailed ecological correlates to homogenization trends.

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