How to define ecology on the basis of its current understanding?

Abstract

The frequently used term ecology is currently interpreted in various ways. This scientific discipline has undergone relatively dynamic development since its inception, and its character is still widening and changing. Therefore, in this contribution we attempt to briefly summarize the subject and contents of current ecology, as well as to propose its more systemic and comprehensive definition. We try to enhance its present definitions especially by putting emphasis on the dynamics of nature (the dynamics of natural processes). We define current ecology as the science dealing with the structure, dynamics and functions of nature including evolution, where structure involves the distribution and abundance of individual organisms, habitats and ecosystems; dynamics include all the aspects of their life trajectories and cycles, including growth, development, reproduction or renewal, interactions and their changes, the cycling of matter, flows of energy and information and their transformations; and functions involve the properties, traits and niches of individual organisms and species in an ecosystem, as well as the properties and niches of ecosystems in the landscape, ecoregion or in the whole Earth system.

Keywords

• dynamics of natural processes
• ecological integrity
• ecology
• ecosystem structure
• functions of nature