Historical summary of terminologies in community ecology

Abstract

This article highlights the importance of terminology in ecology as a fundamental tool for clear and objective communication among scientists, as well as for standardizing study methods and techniques used by ecologists. Terminology refers to a set of terms, concepts, and definitions that are established and accepted by professionals in the field, enabling precise descriptions of species, ecosystems, and ecological processes. However, it is important to note that terminology in ecology is constantly evolving, and it is essential for ecological professionals to stay up to date with changes to contribute to the advancement of science. Understanding the historical process of ecological terminologies is also necessary to comprehend their meanings and how their interactions can affect the understanding of ecology itself. In this sense, we have provided a historical contextualization of several important concepts in community ecology, such as biodiversity, trophic levels, ecological niches, ecological guilds, and functional groups. We have also made comparisons and differentiations between these concepts throughout the history of these terms.