Source link : https://earth-news.info/general/revamping-ecology-the-urgent-need-for-a-causal-overhaul/
In a bold new article published in Biological Reviews, ecologist Ben Franks argues that the field of ecology is overdue for a fundamental shift in how it understands cause and effect. Titled “Ecology needs a causal overhaul,” the 2025 paper challenges long-standing assumptions about ecological interactions and calls for a radical reassessment of methodologies used to identify causality in complex natural systems. As environmental challenges escalate worldwide, Franks’ urgent call could reshape ecological research and conservation strategies by promoting clearer, more precise approaches to unraveling the tangled web of causes behind ecological change.
Rethinking Causality in Ecology to Enhance Predictive Power
Traditionally, ecological studies have relied heavily on correlational data to infer relationships between variables, often neglecting the underlying causal mechanisms. This approach presents limitations, especially when attempting to predict ecosystem responses to environmental changes. Recent advancements advocate for a shift towards methodologies that prioritize causality through experimental designs, manipulative studies, and sophisticated modeling techniques. Such frameworks enable ecologists to dissect complex interactions, revealing not just whether variables change together but how and why these changes occur.
Emphasizing causality over correlation transforms predictive models by enhancing their robustness and interpretability. Key strategies gaining…
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Author : earthnews
Publish date : 2025-12-25 14:51:00
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