Non-trophic Networks - Importance of Interactions

Importance of Interactions

In the same way that a trophic cascade can occur, it is expected that ‘interaction cascades’ take place. Thus, it should be possible to construct ‘effect’ networks which parallel in many ways the energy or matter networks common in the literature. By assessing the network topology and constructing models, we might better understand how interacting species affect each other and how these effects spread through the network. In certain instances, it has been shown that indirect trophic effects tend to dominate direct ones (Patten, 1995)—perhaps this pattern will also emerge in non-trophic interactions.

Read more about this topic:  Non-trophic Networks

Famous quotes containing the words importance of, importance and/or interactions:

    I can never bring you to realize the importance of sleeves, the suggestiveness of thumb-nails, or the great issues that may hang from a boot-lace.
    Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859–1930)

    I am not sure that it is of the first importance that you should be happy. Many an unhappy man has been of deep service to himself and to the world.
    Woodrow Wilson (1856–1924)

    In child rearing it would unquestionably be easier if a child were to do something because we say so. The authoritarian method does expedite things, but it does not produce independent functioning. If a child has not mastered the underlying principles of human interactions and merely conforms out of coercion or conditioning, he has no tools to use, no resources to apply in the next situation that confronts him.
    Elaine Heffner (20th century)