Ecosystem classification by budgets of material; the example of forest ecosystems classified as proton budget types

A conceptual framework for a highly flexible approach to classification is proposed, based on a hierarchy of different levels of organization of matter and on the necessity of integration and scaling. First, it is argued that we should regard three organizational levels at the same time. Second, it is demonstrated that the larger the man-induced disturbances, the more adequate a classification seems by focusing on processes rather than structural characteristics. Related to the hierarchy of organizational levels, trans-level systems may be recognized, to be understood as reaction chains affecting different organizational levels. Finally, this approach is exemplified by a classification of forest ecosystems based on material balance and proton budgets in forests.