Functional ecology

The functional ecology course aims to provide a solid foundation in the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, and in particular the role played by living organisms in the flow of matter within them. The main processes covered are primary production, consumption and in particular herbivory, and the process of decomposition and transformation of soil organic matter. For each of these processes, particular attention is paid to (1) the link between the strategies of the organisms and their function in the ecosystem, and (2) basing the presentation of concepts on field observations, highlighting characteristics of the organisms or the ecosystem that students might encounter during a field trip.

This UE is thus inserted between a broader presentation of ecology in S1 (HLBE304) and brings notions necessary to the UE of L3 of ecology of the communities.

Emphasis is placed on practical aspects, notably through a series of group assignments, where a simple but scientifically relevant hypothesis will be tested experimentally using an appropriate protocol.

Notions of general ecology, in particular within the framework of the UE Fundamental ecology: concepts and methods

In light of the L competency framework, the EU will contribute to the following:

- Know the structures, dynamics and links with the physical environment that define an ecosystem

- To know the interactions between species in communities and their role in the structure and dynamics of biodiversity

- Know the main flows of matter and energy in an ecosystem, both terrestrial and aquatic

- Know the biodemographic and adaptive strategies of organisms, in relation to their resources, interactions and the characteristics of their living environment

- To know the mechanisms of soil formation

- Know the rules and practices of oral, written and electronic communication

- Know the rules of hygiene and safety in the lab and in the field

- Be able to develop a logical argument with a critical mind (limits, confrontation with the biblio, defense of a point of view)

- Know how to search for information in a critical manner (especially with regard to information available online), prioritize information sources and identify their reliability

- Know how to write a scientific study and/or bibliographic report of a few pages

- Be able to propose a problem or testable hypothesis based on a question

- Know how to propose and implement an observation approach, a sampling plan or an experimental approach with support

- Know how to analyze data from an observational or experimental approach

- Be able to use computer tools for data entry, analysis and storage (spreadsheet, R)