Ecological Constraints and Evolutionary Responses in Experimental Microbial Communities

Ecosystems are constantly changing, but predicting these changes is challenging because we don't fully understand how evolution (changes within species) and ecological processes (changes between species) interact. I use laboratory microbial communities to explore how these processes work together to shape ecosystem dynamics. I developed a novel system of canola plants, nematode predators and bacteria, to track how ecological factors usually limit evolutionary changes, and how evolution can push back against or reinforce ecological patterns. The findings reveal that evolution can even shift tipping points where ecosystems suddenly collapse. This work provides a foundation for better managing ecosystems by understanding both their current state and evolutionary potential.