Ecology provides a synthesis of our present knowledge of ecosystem ecology , from local to global.

Features:

• Presents research methods which are based on research, experiment, and modelling
• Includes an introduction to the concept of ecosystem
• Details ecological hierarchies, homogeneity, and heterogeneity
• Discusses an overview of the global functioning of the biosphere from a historical perspective

Contents

The Natures of Ecology

Elaboration of the Scientific Approach in Ecosystem Ecology

• Origin and Evolution of the Ecosystem Concept
• Approaches and Paradigms of Ecosystem Ecology
• Methods of Studying Ecosystems

Structure and Organization of Ecosystems

• The System Concept and Attempts to Apply Physical Principles to Ecosystem Ecology
• Abiotic Factors and Structure and Ecosystems
• Hierarchies, Levels of Organization and Typology of Ecological Systems
• Spatial and Temporal Scales and their Consequences
• Spatial Heterogenity and Temporal Variability

Function of Ecosystems

• Dynamics of Communities and Ecosystems: From the Balance of Nature to Self-Regulated Systems
• Matter and Energy Flows in Ecosystems
• Biological Diversity and Ecosystem Functioning
• The Biogeochemical Cycles

Global Ecology

• Global Ecology: Dynamics of the Biosphere
• The Climatic System and its Variability
• Biosphere-Atmosphere Interactions and their Consequences for Global Equilibrium
• Responses of Ecosystems to Climatic Changes: Knowing the Past to Understand the future

Index

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