How organism traits determine ecosystem dynamics

Many marine species have specific traits that allow them to modify their local environment. These so-called ecosystem engineers shape the intertidal landscape (BioGeoMorphic landscapes) and by doing so, they can have profound effects on the dynamics of estuarine ecosystems.

We aim to develop fundamental insight in how different organism-traits affect ecosystem functioning. Within this group of ecosystem engineering organisams, there is enormous variety: from animals living in the tidal (mud)flats, and plant species inhabiting salt marshes and mangroves. How important are these species-specific differences for the resilience of and services provided by an ecosystem? And how will these differences affect ecosystem dynamics?