Applying Graph Theory in Ecological Research

Graph theory can be applied to ecological questions in many ways, and more insights can be gained by expanding the range of graph theoretical concepts applied to a specific system. But how do you know which methods might be used? And what do you do with the graph once it has been obtained? This book provides a broad introduction to the application of graph theory in different ecological systems, providing practical guidance for researchers in ecology and related fields. Readers are guided through the creation of an appropriate graph for the system being studied, including the application of spatial, spatio-temporal, and more abstract structural process graphs. Simple figures accompany the explanations to add clarity, and a broad range of ecological phenomena from many ecological systems are covered. This is the ideal book for graduate students and researchers looking to apply graph theoretical methods in their work.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Graphs As Structure In The Ecological Context
Chapter 2 Shapes Of Graphs: Trees To Triangles
Chapter 3 Species Interaction Networks
Chapter 4 Trophic Networks: Structure, Partitioning And Dynamics
Chapter 5 Species Associations, Communities And Graphs Of Social Structure
Chapter 6 Competition: Hierarchies And Reversals
Chapter 7 Mutualism, Parasitism And Bipartite Graphs
Chapter 8 Temporal Or Time-Only Graphs
Chapter 9 Spatial Graphs
Chapter 10 Spatio-Temporal Graphs
Chapter 11 Graph Structure And System Function: Graphlet Methods
Chapter 12 Synthesis And Future Directions