Is a community still a community? Reviewing definitions of key terms in community ecology

摘要: Community ecology is an inherently complicated field, confounded by the conflicting use of fundamental terms. Nearly two decades ago, Fauth et al. (1996) demonstrated that imprecise language led to virtual synonymy important terms and so attempted clearly define four keywords in community ecology; "community," "assemblage," "guild," "ensemble". We revisit et al.'s conclusion discuss how these has changed over time since their review. An updated analysis term definition from a selection popular ecological textbooks suggests definitions have drifted away those encountered pre-1996, slightly disagreed with results survey 100 professionals (comprising academic professors, nonacademic PhDs, graduate undergraduate biology students). Results suggest confusion about still widespread ecology. conclude clear suggestions for each be adopted hereafter provide greater cohesion among research groups.