Contextualizing the ecology of plant–plant interactions and constructive networks

Abstract Botanical concepts have traditionally viewed the environment as a static box containing plants. In this box, plants compete with one another and act passive resource consumers subjected to in top-down manner. This entails that only negative effects on other no influence environment. By contrast, there is increasing evidence positive, bottom-up engineering diversity Here, overcome limitations of environmental control, antagonistic-only, pairwise interactions, I propose concept constructive networks. Constructive networks unify niche construction network theory recognizing (i) manifold ecological functions impacts their neighbors, (ii) shapes shaped by diverse organisms, primarily integrate both plant–environment plant–plant interactions relational context. It addressed how support or inhibit plant species physically, biochemically, ecologically shaping conditions. acknowledge fact change create novel conditions well co-produce, share, transform resources, thereby influencing biological communities ways. Different interaction types are considered simultaneously Yet, understanding mainly limited identifying links. barrier may be overcame applying complexity statistical mechanics comparative data experimental field botany. Considering multiple feedbacks between improve our mechanisms responsible for biodiversity maintenance help us better anticipate response systems global change.