Theoretical ecology is a discipline of science that studies ecological system using methods that revolve mostly around theory. There are many methods used to dictate the theory, and using effective models help improve our understanding of the natural world. The goals of these are simple, to unify logical observations made by making assumptions. These assumptions allow theoretical ecology to exist, as to theory craft, something must be absolute.

Theoretical ecology has benefited massively from the dawn of large computing power. These computers have allowed large-scale simulations of ecological events, allowing scientists to analyze and visualize them. This can help scientists predict a variety of things, such as species invasions, over/under fishing, hunting/not hunting certain species, as well as climate change (formally known as global warming).

The methods used in theoretical ecology can include mathematical models (Using math to create theories), conceptual models (Creating concepts based on past information), computational simulations (using computers to accurately predict events), and data analysis.

Mathematical models are part of the fundamentals of ecological theory. Phenomenological models purify the distributed and functioning shapes from patterns in data. Researchers can also decide on how functions and distribution directly affect their work. Mechanistic models make a model of the basic processes that happen, which allow for greater information for theoretical reasoning on ecological processes.

Ecological models can be categorized into two things: deterministic or stochastic. Deterministic models will always evolve in entirely similar ways. They are the absolute, so they lack the random chance that comes with other models. Stochastic models are the ones that have random properties in them. This helps underlie real world ecological systems, and gives a greater understanding to ecology.

Species are usually modelled in constant or discrete time. Continuous time uses a variety of differential equations. Differential equations are equations that have a function to represent physical properties, a derivative that represents rate of change. The equation is how scientists define a relationship between the two. Discrete time uses difference equations to model. A difference equation targets a certain type of reoccurring relation, but can mean any equation.

Models are usually used to describe reproduction in ecological processes of a single or multiple species. An example of this would be interacting populations of organisms. This is dependent on the species, and can be modeled through either continuous or discrete time.

Theoretical ecology allows for the progress of ecology through a variety of models. These models are purely theoretical, and are only proven once the event can take place. While we know about ecology, theoretical ecology will push human knowledge on the subject to the limit. There soon will be nothing we cannot predict in the world of ecology.

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