Oscar
Godoy Del Olmo
Mediterranean Ecological and Synthesis lab (MESSY lab) aims to understand the processes maintaining biodiversity and their links to ecosystem functioning. For that, we combine detailed field observations and process-based experiments with a unique interface of ecological theory and modelling toolboxes. This interface of theory, modelling and experiments is not specific to any taxonomic group. We primarily focus on Mediterranean-type ecosystems because they combine complex evolutionary histories and high levels of diversity subjected to continuous changes in environmental conditions. These systems are ideal to shed new light on our understanding of how biodiversity is maintained in an ever-changing world. Extensions of the knowledge obtained and modelling tools developed apply to other ecosystems such as marine and coastal communities in the Atlantic Ocean and grasslands and forests in Temperate ecosystems. Because we do not forget the current and profound effects of anthropogenic activities on natural ecosystems, we work to identify and propose solutions for the conservation, management and restoration of ecological communities.