Data from: Toward a periodic table of niches, or exploring the lizard niche hypervolume

Widespread niche convergence suggests that species can be organized
according to functional trait combinations to create a framework analogous
to a periodic table. We compiled ecological data for lizards to examine
patterns of global and regional niche diversification, and used
multivariate statistical approaches to develop the beginnings for a
periodic table of niches. Data (50+ variables) for five major niche
dimensions (habitat, diet, life history, metabolism, defense) were
compiled for 134 species of lizards representing 24 of the 38 extant
families. Principal Coordinates Analyses were performed on niche
dimensional datasets, and species scores for the first three axes were
used as input for a Principal Components Analysis to ordinate species in
continuous niche space, and for a Regression Tree Analysis to separate
species into discrete niche categories. 3D models facilitate exploration
of species positions in relation to major gradients within the niche
hypervolume. The first gradient loads on body size, foraging mode, and
clutch size. The second was influenced by metabolism and terrestrial
versus arboreal microhabitat. The third was influenced by activity time,
life history, and diet. Natural dichotomies are activity time, foraging
mode, parity mode, and habitat. Regression tree analysis identified 103
cases of extreme niche conservatism within clades and 100 convergences
between clades. Extending this approach to other taxa should lead to a
wider understanding of niche evolution.