Figure 1. Conceptual model of possible inter-annual responses of Spartina plant parameters and consumer densities to press and pulse nitrogen subsidies.

Plant characteristics (A, C) and arthropod densities (B, D, E) are expected to vary over time due to seasonal and stochastic events not related to the treatment effect. Here we show the predicted responses of the pulse and press treatments in relation to the control treatment, which is held constant over time. Question mark (?) in B represents possible different responses by herbivores depending on level of predator suppression. Question mark (?) in E represents possible different responses by predators depending on whether predators over-exploit their prey.