Ecology of Novel Ecosystems

Many ecosystems are rapidly being transformed into new, non-historical configurations owing to a variety of local and global changes. In this course we discuss how new systems can arise in the face of primarily biotic change, primarily abiotic change and a combination of both. Novel ecosystems can be thought as displaying an entirely novel biotic and abiotic configuration. Many novel elements may become integral parts of the system. This can range from the prevalence of a single species that was not present before to completely transformed systems such as plantations becoming important resources for native species. Also we pay attention to a problem that these novel systems will require significant revision of conservation and restoration norms and practices of ecosystems.