Selective extinction and habitat nestedness are the main drivers of lizard nestedness in the Zhoushan Archipelago

Abstract Nested subset pattern (nestedness) is an important part of the theoretical framework island biogeography and community ecology. However, most previous studies often used nestedness metrics or randomization algorithms that are vulnerable to type I error. In this study, we investigated lizard assemblages on 37 islands in Zhoushan Archipelago, China. We line-transect method survey species occurrence, abundance, habitat types lizards during 2 breeding seasons 2021 2022. applied nested metric WNODF conservative rc null model control for error quantify significance nestedness. Spearman rank correlations were evaluate role 4 variables (island area, isolation indices, diversity) ecological traits (body size, geographic range clutch minimum area requirement) generating The results analyses showed significantly nested. habitat-by-site matrix estimated by program NODF was also nested, supporting hypothesis. correlated with diversity, requirement. Overall, our suggest selective extinction main drivers system. contrast, not due passive sampling colonization. To maximize number preserved, indicate should protect both large diverse habitats requirement size.