A comparative ecology of cities and towns: Synthesis of opportunities and limitations

Abstract

Introduction: Over the past 20 years the study of urban ecology has made great progress. Our understanding of urban ecosystems and their influence on ecological patterns and processes is advancing to where we can begin to formulate some generalities. Many of these advances in understanding have been due to comparative studies at a local scale, such as those using a gradient approach within a metropolitan area. However, very few of the studies to date have taken a regional or global comparative approach, and therefore, many remain as little more than case studies. Comparative research between urban areas will allow us to test the applicability of these findings and generalities in cities with..