Abstract
Ecology is the science of interactions between living organisms and their environment; this environment itself consists of other living organisms, which in turn interact with their own environment and with other living organisms. It is clear from the very definition of ecology that this is a discipline dealing with complex phenomena. And it is certainly this complexity—both fascinating and challenging—that constitutes one of the most interesting aspects of ecological studies. Even when systems seem simple, or interactions logical, this often subtle complexity reveals paradoxes to us that are as surprising as they are delightful. Most of the time, these paradoxes are only apparent, and stem from our partial view of the systems under study. Ultimately, decades of research have taught us that the only way to understand biodiversity—and the ecology that studies it—is through a comprehensive, holistic lens. Drawing on examples from the work that has marked my career as an ecological researcher, this opening lecture will move from paradox to paradox to demonstrate how complexity in ecology necessitates a holistic approach. From cats hunting rats and birds to lions hunted for trophies, from ant battles to fighting beetles, from protective fires to species that are both threatened and threatening, we will explore together some examples of the questions, systems, and studies that make up my daily life as an ecologist.
