Species interactions: from microevolution to macroecology

Interactions among species can influence the structure and distribution of biodiversity, for example because closely related lineages tend to compete or hybridise, thus limiting geographic range overlap or driving divergent selection on traits. However, recent phylogenetic and trait-based studies of birds challenge common assumptions about the consequence of species interactions and their role in shaping broad-scale patterns in evolution and ecology. The results offer a framework for understanding complex ecosystems and predicting their response to environmental change.