Functional complexity: The source of value in biodiversity

摘要: Biodiversity may be seen as a scientific measure of the complexity biological system, implying an information basis. Complexity cannot directly valued, so economists have tried to define services it provides, though often just valuing ‘key’ species. Here we provide new definition biodiversity functional information, arguing that embodies meaningful Gregory Bateson defined it. We argue content (FIC) is potentially valuable component total (algorithmic) (AIC), alone determines fitness and supports ecosystem services. Inspired by recent extensions Noah's Ark problem, show how FIC/AIC can calculated degree substitutability within ecological community. Establishing essential foundation for valuation. From it, derive way rank whole communities Indirect Use Value, through quantifying relation between system production rate Understanding evidently serves practical interface economics science.