Biotic interactions biogeography: Integrating species interactions into macroecological biodiversity research

Summary

This Essay by Galiana and Araújo (2026) proposes a framework for "biotic interactions biogeography" — integrating biogeography and ecology to understand how species interactions (predation, competition, mutualism) shape biodiversity patterns across spatial and temporal scales. The authors argue that while biogeography traditionally focuses on abiotic factors and species distributions, and ecology focuses on local-scale interactions, new data sources (e.g., DNA barcoding, species interaction networks, remote sensing) now allow the study of species interactions at macroecological scales. The framework examines how interaction networks vary across gradients, how they influence range dynamics and community assembly, and how they respond to global change. The Essay synthesizes recent advances and outlines a research agenda for a more integrated understanding of biodiversity.