Geomorphology and ecosystems: Challenges and keys for success in bridging disciplines

Abstract

Geomorphology plays a fundamental role in controlling many ecosystem processes, and in turn, ecosystems can have a profound influence on many geomorphic forms and processes. Over the past few decades, a proliferation of research has developed at the interface of geomorphology and ecosystems ecology. The 2005 Binghamton Symposium brought together some of the leading researchers from both communities to address these critical interfaces between the disciplines. This paper reviews some of the aspects of the disciplines of geomorphology and ecosystems ecology, and the papers presented at the symposium. The papers in this volume illustrate the current status of the disciplines, the difficulties in bridging the disciplines, and the issues that are emerging as research priorities.