Universal dose–response sensitivity of ecological processes to low levels of artificial light at night

Biological Conservation 2026 Open access

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Authors: Conrad Schittko, Benedikt Huggins, Sarah M. Kiefer, Sophia Kimmig, Sibylle Schroer, Maja Grubisic, Franz Hölker
DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2026.111825
Cited by: 2
References: 40

Abstract

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is an emerging driver of biodiversity change, yet quantitative evidence on how biological responses scale with light intensity remains limited. We compiled and modelled 15 datasets covering a wide range of taxa and processes, including physiological, behavioural, and ecosystem-level responses. Each dataset was fitted with a logarithmic dose–response model, enabling comparison across studies and identification of critical thresholds. Across all datasets, biological responses increased steeply at very low illuminance levels, with the strongest changes occurring in the sub-lux range (

Fields of Study & Subjects

Impact of Light on Environment and Health Chemical and Physical Studies Ocular and Laser Science Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Biological Conservation
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
318
Pages
111825–111825
Publication date
9 April 2026
Language
EN