Local trait organization established

Abstract

Traditionally, ecological theory on community assembly and Applied Vegetation Science are considered distinct. Fischer et al. (this issue of Applied Vegetation Science), however, show neatly how differences in trait composition between resident and colonizing species could be established. By using an environmental context-specific approach, the analysis bridges the gap between application and more theoretical understanding of vegetation ecology. Traditionally, ecological theory on community assembly and Applied Vegetation Science are considered distinct. Fischer et al. (this issue of Applied Vegetation Science), however, show neatly how differences in trait composition between resident and colonizing species could be established. By using an environmental context-specific approach, the analysis bridges the gap between application and more theoretical understanding of vegetation ecology. © 2013 International Association for Vegetation Science.