Advancing terrestrial ecology by improving cross-temporal research and collaboration

Area of Science:

• Ecology, specifically the integration of paleoecology and neoecology.
• Focus on terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity research.

Background:

• Ecology research historically bifurcated between millennial timescales (paleoecology) and modern timescales (neoecology).
• Limited integration between these subdisciplines hinders a comprehensive understanding of ecological patterns and processes.
• Previous calls for engagement have not directly compared subdiscipline research agendas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize and compare research agendas in terrestrial ecology across different temporal scales.
• To identify themes and case studies for integrating paleoecology and neoecology.
• To propose a path forward for a more unified and time-inclusive approach to ecological research.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of priority research questions from two key studies: Sutherland et al. (2013) for neoecology and Seddon et al. (2014) for paleoecology.
• Identification of overlapping themes and potential areas for cross-temporal collaboration.
• Exploration of existing case studies demonstrating successful integration.

Main Results:

• Several themes with potential for temporal integration between paleoecology and neoecology were identified.
• Case studies illustrating successful cross-temporal collaboration were explored.
• A framework for future integration, emphasizing education, infrastructure, and collaboration, was outlined.

Conclusions:

• Integrating paleoecology and neoecology is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity.
• Treating time as a foundational concept is essential for advancing ecological science.
• Promoting an inclusive and integrative approach will improve our understanding of long-term ecological patterns and processes.