Some steps toward a central theory of ecosystem dynamics

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Theoretical Ecology
• Ecosystem Science

Background:

• Ecology currently lacks a central, unifying theory comparable to those in physics.
• Several competing laws attempt to explain ecosystem behavior.
• The principle of increasing ascendency shows promise as a foundational ecological theory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of the principle of increasing ascendency as a central theory in ecology.
• To address key questions regarding organism distribution, species number distributions, and ecosystem properties.
• To identify theoretical tasks needed to strengthen the ascendency principle's application.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the principle of increasing ascendency.
• Review of existing progress in applying ascendency to ecological questions.
• Proposal of seven theoretical tasks for future research.

Main Results:

• The principle of increasing ascendency shows early promise for explaining ecosystem behavior.
• Progress has been made in linking ascendency to organism distribution.
• Connections between ascendency and species diversity/ecosystem stability require further development.

Conclusions:

• The ascendency principle could serve as the core of a unified theory of ecosystems.
• Further theoretical work is necessary to fully establish its explanatory power.
• Seven specific tasks are outlined to guide future research and solidify the ascendency principle.