Ecology across scales: Linking microbial diversity, biodiversity history and social ecological determinants of health
Abstract
Ecology operates across multiple scales, from microbial communities in soils to the historical patterns of biodiversity that shape ecosystem structure and further to the social-ecological systems that govern human health. Understanding these interconnected scales is critical for addressing contemporary environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss and emerging health threats. Microbial diversity underpins nutrient cycling, soil fertility and ecosystem resilience, while biodiversity history informs the evolution of species interactions, ecosystem function and adaptive capacity. Simultaneously, social ecological determinants? including community design, access to natural spaces and resource management?mediate human exposure to ecosystem services and health outcomes. This article synthesizes research across microbial ecology, macroecology and social ecology to illustrate how ecological processes at multiple scales intersect and influence both ecosystem function and public health. By integrating these perspectives, we highlight the importance of multiscale ecological thinking for conservation, urban planning and sustainable health interventions.