Friday, August 10, 2007: 10:40 AM
A1&8, San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Olav Skarpaas, Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway, Joseph T. Dauer, IGDP Ecology, Department of Crop and Soil Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, Carrie M. Schwarz, Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, Emily S.J. Rauschert, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, Eelke Jongejans, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands, Randa Jabbour, University of Wyoming, David A. Mortensen, IGDP Ecology, Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, Scott A. Isard, Department of Plant Pathology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, David A. Lieb, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, Zeynep Sezen, Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, Andrew G. Hulting, Department of Crop and Soil Science, The Oregon State University, Matthew J. Ferrari, Biology, Penn State University, University Park, PA, Katriona Shea, Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA and Eric S. Long, Department of Biology, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA
Dispersal is a central concept in movement ecology. Here, we discuss this concept in the context of its historical and current uses in different research traditions. We further address the potential and need for general quantitative descriptions (models) of dispersal patterns and processes. As a framework for this discussion, we present a general conceptual movement process model capturing important phases of movements in all organisms: preconditioning, initiation, relocation, cessation and impact. In the light of this model, we discuss the relationships between dispersal and similar concepts like movement and migration, with particular reference to spatiotemporal and biological scale. We review general patterns and mechanisms of dispersal across organisms, and suggest sources of inspiration for further development and integration in this field. We highlight the importance of understanding dispersal mechanisms, using examples from biological theory and applications in pest control and conservation.
