Functional ecology

Functional ecology aims to provide a solid foundation for understanding how terrestrial ecosystems function, particularly the role played by living organisms in material flows within these ecosystems. The main processes addressed are primary production, consumption relationships (particularly herbivory), and the decomposition and transformation of soil organic matter. For each of these processes, particular attention is paid to (1) the link between the strategies of organisms and their function in the ecosystem, and (2) basing the presentation of concepts on field observations, highlighting characteristics of organisms or the ecosystem that students may encounter during field trips.

This course thus fits between a broader introduction to ecology in S1 (HLBE304) and provides the necessary concepts for the L3 course in community ecology.

The emphasis is on practical aspects, particularly through a series of group practical assignments, in which a simple but scientifically relevant hypothesis will be tested experimentally using an appropriate protocol.

General ecology concepts, particularly within the EU Fundamental ecology: concepts and methods

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

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

- Understand species interactions within communities and their role in the structure and dynamics of biodiversity

- Understand the main flows of matter and energy in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems

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

- Understand the mechanisms of soil formation

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

- Know the health and safety rules in the lab and in the field

- Be able to develop a logical argument with a critical mind (limitations, comparison with the literature, defense of a point of view)

- Know how to search for information critically (particularly 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 testable problem or hypothesis based on a question

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

- Ability to analyze data obtained from observation or experimentation

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