Biodiversité et Fonctionnement des écosystèmes

Aim :

• understanding the mechanisms involved in the dynamics of biodiversity at different spatial scales
• understanding the role of biodiversity in the functioning of ecosystems
  

Content:

• Biodiversity dynamics
  • Measurement and analysis of biodiversity at different hierarchical levels (from gene to community),
  • Different spatial scales of biodiversity: latitudinal and altitudinal gradients, niche size
  • Links between biodiversity, disturbances and ecosystem dynamics
  • Impact of climate change and consequences of biological invasions
• Role of biodiversity on the functioning of ecosystems
  • Links between biodiversity and functions : theoretical framework
  • Role of biodiversity in element cycles and matter flows: ecosystem engineers, niche construction
  • Trophic interactions: trophic cascades, regulation of resources by consumers ("top-down"), feedbacks of resources on consumers ("bottom-up")
  • Functional traits in communities