Thermodynamics and Measures of Ecological Integrity

Over the past decade, the authors have studied the organization of ecosystems using complex systems theory, and in particular non-equilibrium thermodynamics. This study has led to a set of hypotheses concerning the organizational development of ecosystems, a thermodynamic framework for discussing ecosystem integrity, and a set of measures that reflect ecosystem organization and aid in the assessment of the impact of environmental change. These are presented herein.

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