Changing perspectives in community dynamics: A theory of successional forces

S T Pickett; M J McDonnell

doi:10.1016/0169-5347(89)90170-5

Changing perspectives in community dynamics: A theory of successional forces

Trends Ecol Evol. 1989 Aug;4(8):241-5. doi: 10.1016/0169-5347(89)90170-5.

Authors

S T Pickett¹, M J McDonnell

Affiliation

¹ Institute of Ecosystem Studies, The New York Botanical Garden, Mary Flagler Cary Arboretum, Box AB, Millbrook, NY 12545, USA.

PMID: 21227360
DOI: 10.1016/0169-5347(89)90170-5

Abstract

The classical concepts of succession and climax were burdened with intractable assumptions and were difficult to apply to the field. Conceptual refinements and more realistic assumptions have been proposed to identify the useful essence of the original ideas. The contemporary theory of community dynamics emphasizes process rather than end point, accommodates the richness of causes of succession, and motivates diverse research approaches.