It is the best of times for biofilm research. Systems biology approaches are providing new insights into the genetic regulation of microbial functions, and sophisticated modelling techniques are enabling the prediction of microbial community structures. Yet it is also clear that there is a need for ecological theory to contribute to our understanding of biofilms. Here, we suggest a concept for ...

A decision support system model is described to advise nature park managers. It applies dynamic modelling techniques to relate abiotic characteristics of a site over time to species that can be found. For a desired vegetation type it determines how such abiotic factors are to be changed in order to obtain the desired change in the vegetation after some time. The system takes into account an eco...

Species distribution models have grown in complexity by incorporating fine-scale variables, including data on microclimate, physiology and species interactions. Recent studies acknowledged the importance of spatial scale higher resolution maps more complex climatic variables. However, rarely consider consequences related to time. Indeed, phenology – potential shifts due, for example, climate ch...