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Paleoecoinformatics: applying geohistorical data to ecological questions
Simon Brewer1, Stephen T Jackson, John W Williams
1Department of Botany and Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center, 1000 E. University Ave., University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA. simon.brewer@geog.utah.edu
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|October 18, 2011
Summary
Paleoecoinformatics, using ecological databases and tools, is growing rapidly. This field, combining ecoinformatics and geoinformatics, faces data challenges but offers opportunities to understand life's history.
Area of Science:
- Paleoecoinformatics: Integrating ecological and geological data for historical life science research.
Background:
- Paleoecoinformatics leverages community support and new tools for ecological and evolutionary studies.
- It sits at the intersection of ecoinformatics and geoinformatics, addressing data integration challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growth and opportunities in paleoecoinformatics.
- To identify shared challenges and benefits among paleoecoinformatics, ecoinformatics, and geoinformatics communities.
Main Methods:
- Development and application of paleoecological databases and computational tools.
- Comparative analysis of data management and integration strategies across related informatics fields.
Main Results:
- Paleoecoinformatics is rapidly advancing with new tools, enabling broader ecological and evolutionary insights.
- Shared challenges include managing heterogeneous, dynamic datasets and ensuring data quality.
Conclusions:
- Increased engagement between paleoecoinformatics, ecoinformatics, and geoinformatics communities will foster advancements.
- Addressing data integration and quality is crucial for understanding ecological dynamics across Earth's history.
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