Author(s): Dr. Sunanda Sahoo
ISBN: 978-81-974811-7-8
Access: Closed Access
Binding Type: Perfect Binding
Copyright: 2024
DOI: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2024-21158594/SproutPublication/book/Sys.Ecology&Energetics/SS

The field of ecology has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, evolving from traditional studies that focus on individual species and simple interactions to a more integrated and holistic approach known as systems ecology. This approach emphasizes the complex interactions within ecological systems and the flow of energy that drives these processes. “A Textbook of Systems Ecology and Energetics” aims to provide a comprehensive and contemporary exploration of these advanced areas, offering both theoretical foundations and practical applications to students, researchers, and practitioners alike. The purpose of this textbook is to bridge the gap between traditional ecological studies and modern systems-based approaches, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the interconnectedness of biological, physical, and chemical processes within ecosystems. By merging concepts from systems theory and energetics, this book offers a holistic view of ecological dynamics, emphasizing the importance of understanding how energy flows through ecosystems and how these flows influence the structure and function of ecological communities. The book is divided into several parts, each focusing on key aspects of systems ecology and energetics. The first section introduces the fundamentals of systems ecology, providing an overview of the principles of systems theory and their application to ecological studies. This section covers essential topics such as system components, feedback loops, and the modeling of ecological networks, offering readers a solid foundation in the basic concepts of systems ecology. The second section delves into the principles of energetics, exploring how energy is captured, transferred, and dissipated within ecosystems. This section discusses the concept of trophic levels, primary production, and energy efficiency in detail, providing readers with a deep understanding of the mechanisms that drive energy flow within ecological systems. We also acknowledge the contributions of the various authors and researchers whose work has been cited throughout the book, as their research has provided the foundation for many of the concepts and ideas presented here.