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Evolution of the concept of ecological integrity and its study through networks

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  • González, Cecilia

Abstract

Evaluating the state of ecosystems is a major concern for humanity. For that purpose, the concept of ecological integrity has been present in both public policy and academia for decades. Here, the concept is reviewed from its origin as an ambiguous notion, through the main discourses and concepts associated with it over time and its main critiques. It is shown that a shift towards complexity sciences has permeated the study of ecosystems functioning over the last years and two main pathways have been taken: network theory and information theory, and that the concept of integrity has been gradually replaced by more transparent terms. Focusing on network theory, I first review developments in single interaction networks and find that a lack of consensus has characterized results in this area, partly due to the restrictions of these methodologies. Then I review recent advances in networks that allow for multiple types of interactions and spatiotemporal scales, highlighting the kind of insights that can be gained from each methodology and the questions ahead. Implementing these new frameworks will likely continue to bring novel insights into the functioning of ecosystems and how different management strategies contribute to it.

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  • González, Cecilia, 2023. "Evolution of the concept of ecological integrity and its study through networks," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 476(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:476:y:2023:i:c:s0304380022003222
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2022.110224
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