How short- and long-term temporal scales shape biodiversity: multi-taxa dynamics across the life cycle of quarries

In the context of increasing anthropogenic disturbance and habitat loss, understanding how communities respond after disturbance is crucial. Although quarrying degrades habitats, the post-exploitation phase may provide opportunities for ecological rehabilitation and inform on community dynamics. We analyzed biodiversity data from a long-term monitoring program conducted in 38 quarries in northern France, covering a gradient from pre-exploitation conditions to 30 years after exploitation. Three taxonomic groups were studied: birds, bats, and butterflies. Species-specific abundance and community-level indicators—species richness, evenness, a Community Specialization Index, and species composition—were analyzed. Two complementary approaches were used: a categorical analysis of quarry life-cycle stages and an analysis of temporal trajectories distinguishing short-term (0–10 years) from long-term (>10 years). No major decline in community indices was observed during the exploitation stage, likely reflecting the low biodiversity of the surrounding landscape. After the exploitation, taxon-specific responses emerged: birds and butterflies showed positive responses during early rehabilitation stages, whereas bats responded positively at later stages. We identified contrasting colonization patterns, with some species showing abundance peaks at specific stages of the quarry life cycle, while other species showed no variation. We revealed no direct effect of time during the short-term period. In contrast, after 10 years, time had a significant direct effect, suggesting an increasing role of biotic interactions in community dynamics. Overall, differences in colonization capacity and habitat affinity among taxa highlight the importance of long-term, multi-taxon monitoring and the need to integrate both short- and long-term objectives into quarry rehabilitation strategies.