Ecological Stoichiometry in Aquatic Ecosystems: Studies and Applications

Ecological stoichiometry studies the balance between multiple chemical elements in ecological processes. It is a theory, a way of thinking and a tool. The key problem for ecological stoichiometry is to reveal the effects of variations in the elemental composition of organisms in regards to ecological functions. Ecological stoichiometry can permeate all aspects of ecology because it can unify all ecological processes (from molecules to the biosphere). Key principles (homeostasis and growth rate hypothesis) of ecological stoichiometry are based upon elemental stoichiometry which is the core of ecological stoichiometry. Combined with our own research, we reviewed a number of new achievements in ecological stoichiometry in aquatic ecosystems. This review will help advance studies and applications of ecological stoichiometry in aquatic ecosystems in China.