The Rise of Restoration Ecology

摘要: ![Figure][1] CREDIT: GRAND TOUR/CORBIS In art, restoration involves recapturing an object's aesthetic value. In ecology, the stakes are arguably much higher: Our planet's future may depend on maturation of young discipline ecological restoration. this issue, we sample projects around world and consider state science emerging field. The goal ecology is not necessarily to restore ecosystem a pristine, prehuman ideal, but long-term view still important. opening Perspective, Jackson Hobbs (p. [567][2]) highlight paleoecology as component science. Two more Perspectives focus aspects terrestrial ecosystems that vital success Harris [573][3]) considers role soil microbial community: bacteria fungi degrade organic matter provide nutrients system. Dixon [571][4]) highlights pollinators, whose activities essential natural restored plant communities. The struggle balance complexity economic reality theme three News features: two examine efforts functional forest in southern China [556][5]) Borneo [557][6]) third probes consequences burgeoning rubber plantations Southeast Asia [564][7]). How successful restoration? Palmer Filoso [575][8]) caution it unlikely lead full recovery biodiversity services undisturbed systems. A meta-analysis by Rey Benayas et al. , published Science Express week, confirms shows well-done consistently enhances services. another Norton [569][9]) limits posed invasive species, story examines national program targeting invasives South Africa [562][10]). Also Schulte report unprecedented oysters Chesapeake Bay eastern United States, which bodes well for health entire estuarine ecosystem. Coral reefs, meanwhile, under attack from human insults climate change; feature [559][11]) gives overview important damaged reefs. Finally, Research Article, Worm [578][12]) review current marine fisheries, concluding making fisheries sustainable achievable goal. Restoration relatively new science—the Society Ecological Restoration International ([www.ser.org/default.asp][13]) celebrates its 21st birthday year—but short life has assumed major development across globe. [1]: pending:yes [2]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.1172977 [3]: /lookup/volpage/325/573?iss=5940 [4]: /lookup/volpage/325/571?iss=5940 [5]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.325_556 [6]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.325_557 [7]: /lookup/volpage/325/564?iss=5940 [8]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.1172976 [9]: /lookup/volpage/325/569?iss=5940 [10]: /lookup/volpage/325/562?iss=5940 [11]: /lookup/volpage/325/559?iss=5940 [12]: /lookup/volpage/325/578?iss=5940 [13]: http://www.ser.org/default.asp