Quantitative Analysis of Ecological Networks

Displays the broad range of quantitative approaches to analysing ecological networks, providing clear examples and guidance for researchers.

Mark R. T. Dale (Author), Marie-Josée Fortin (Author)

9781108740715, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 15 April 2021

300 pages
24.4 x 17 x 1.2 cm, 0.5 kg

'The foundations of the analysis of ecological graphs are provided in an almost encyclopedic format by two experts in graph theory. Their presentation emphasizes definitions, simple line graph illustrations, quantitative formulations, and references necessary for employing graph-theory concepts to analyze ecological communities … The comprehensive review of graph-theoretic analysis by the authors is an invaluable reference for those who wish to focus on how the topology of ecosystems provides clues concerning system structure and function.' Robert E. Ulanowicz, The Quarterly Review of Biology

Network thinking and network analysis are rapidly expanding features of ecological research. Network analysis of ecological systems include representations and modelling of the interactions in an ecosystem, in which species or factors are joined by pairwise connections. This book provides an overview of ecological network analysis including generating processes, the relationship between structure and dynamic function, and statistics and models for these networks. Starting with a general introduction to the composition of networks and their characteristics, it includes details on such topics as measures of network complexity, applications of spectral graph theory, how best to include indirect species interactions, and multilayer, multiplex and multilevel networks. Graduate students and researchers who want to develop and understand ecological networks in their research will find this volume inspiring and helpful. Detailed guidance to those already working in network ecology but looking for advice is also included.

Preface
1. Ecological Processes and Network Systems
2. Structural Properties of Networks
3. Quantitative Analysis of Dynamic Networks
4. Multi-layer, -type, and -level Networks
5. Tying it all together: Summary and Synthesis.

Subject Areas: Conservation of wildlife & habitats [RNKH], Environmental management [RNF], Animal ecology [PSVS], Plant ecology [PSTS], Biology, life sciences [PS], Data analysis: general [GPH]