Tundra Nunavik: Matrix of trophic relations between species of Labrador and northern Quebec

While most ecological studies focus on the impact of climate change on some populations or species, broader, ecosystem-based information is needed to better predict the future state of the Arctic. We therefore conducted a large-scale study aimed at modelling the vulnerability of tundra ecosystems to climate change. As part of this study, we gathered all known predator-prey relationships among mammal and bird species which distribution overlaps Labrador and the province of Quebec north of the 50°N. We also included some groups of arthropods (arachnida, coleoptera, diptera, hymenoptera, lepidoptera) and plants (lichens, grasses, low shrubs, erect shrubs, mosses, cyperacea, poacea) as well as three types of subsidies (marine, aquatic and terrestrial). To determine which mammal and bird species should be included in our analysis, we used the species distributions available on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature website (mammals) and on BirdLife International and NatureServe websites (birds). Arthropod and plant taxa to be included were determined through expert consultation. The trophic links collected originate from the scientific literature (over 200 articles consulted), from large databases (e.g., Birds of North America, IUCN Red List of Threatened Species), and from various experts from government and academia. A complete list of species/taxa included in the matrix is available in the Supplementary documentation.