Models as instruments for combination of ecological theory and environmental practice

Abstract The application of models as an instrument in science to develop ecosystem theories is discussed and demonstrated by the use of concrete examples. The ecosystem properties found by the use of models as a synthesizing tool should also be used as constraints in modelling in order to reflect to a higher extent ecosystem properties in ecological models, in addition to the obvious physical constraints, such as the conservation principles. An elaborate procedure to develop ecological models with more ecosystem properties is proposed. Finally, the application of ecological models in environmental management is discussed and in this context the application of goals functions to account for ecosystem properties.