Ecological complexity

Ecological complexity is the study of ecological phenomena using complex systems, and science perspectives and methodologies. Complex systems display common features such as surprising behavior, many feedback and feedforward loops, decentralized control, and irreducibility, which lead to emergent properties. As a result, it is necessary to study these systems at multiple hierarchical levels. Computer-generated worlds are one way to investigate whole complex systems in a manner not previously available. Ecological systems are complex systems as they are composed of many interacting and adaptive parts operating at many scales of resolution. Better management of ecological resources warrants a better understanding of complex systems.

KEYWORDS: Adaptive; Ecological complexity; Emergence; Hierarchy; Nonlinear; Self-organization; Surprise

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