Ecosystem Function, Principles of

Abstract

During the last few decades, scientists have extensively researched the relationship between biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and ecosystem services. Biodiversity is undergoing an unprecedented decline in human history, while ecosystem functions and services are deteriorating on a global scale. Ecosystems are composed of communities of organisms that interact with one another and the abiotic environment. The interactions of organisms and their environment are represented in processes (e.g., photosynthesis, cycling of nutrients) that are called ecosystem functions (e.g., primary productivity) and represent the capacity of ecosystems to provide ecosystem services. An understanding of how biodiversity and ecosystem functioning are related is necessary for determining how to sustain ecosystem services and therefore future generations. This chapter synthesizes key concepts from relevant scientific publications concerning ecosystem functions and their relationship to biodiversity and ecosystem services.