by Sue Milton-Dean

Wolwekraal Conservation and Research www.wcro.co.za

& Renu-Karoo Veld Restoration cc www.renu-karoo.co.za

• Venue: Online (register here)

Abstract

Systems Engineering is based on systems thinking. Systems Ecology deals with the complexities within natural ecosystems including their emergent properties. Ecosystems are built of layers: geology, water, plants and animals, all of which interact with one another and with the surrounding atmosphere. In this talk I discuss the complex networks around as a single species of small insect related to a cockroach. This insect, the Small Harvester Termite, recycles nutrients, is food for many animal species, supports a keystone animal whose digging activities shelter essential seed dispersers and pollinators, generates patterns on landscape and even sequesters carbon for thousands of years. In the anthopocene, human impacts on all forms of life, on hydrology and the atmosphere are changing natural ecosystems with unknown outcomes for the sustainability of human cultures and life.