Potential discussion topics

What are the implications of removal of predators from an ecosystem?

What are the differences and similarities between Gaia theory and smaller scale ecosystems?

Is functional diversity more important than species diversity in driving ecosystem processes and function?

Has anthropogenic activity led to an irreversible change in the global system of self-regulation?

Can a stable state has been maintained in an ecosystem, despite anthropogenic induced changes? Are tipping points inevitable?

Are payments for ecosystem Services as effective as traditional conservation methods such as establishment of protected areas or protecting species in terms of conserving biodiversity?

What are the similarities and differences between energy flow and nutrient cycles through ecosystems?