REFLECTIONS ON VICTOR GORSHKOV’S FINAL WORK – “KEY ECOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF IMMOTILE VERSUS LOCOMOTIVE LIFE”

Chown S.

RJEE Vol. 5 (2). 2020 | DOI: 10.21685/2500-0578-2020-2-4
Abstract | PDF (Eng) | Additional files

Receipt date 30.01.2020 | Publication date 26.06.2020

 

S. L. Chown

School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
E-mail: steven.chown@monash.edu

 

Abstract. As the scientific literature explodes in its abundance, specialisation and forgetfulness, the temptation to quote from José Ortega Y Gasset becomes irresistible: It would then be seen how, generation after generation, the scientist has been gradually restricted and confined into narrower fields of mental occupation [1]. Followed swiftly by cynical reflection on the publishing industry’s massive profits. Victor Gorshkov’s work immediately dispels these temptations. Here one sees the intellectual bounty offered by range – capability across and interest in multiple fields [2]. Among the very best of what science offers. Here I give a few examples.

 

Keywords: metabolic rate, biotic pump, hydrological cycle, immobile life, trace gases.

 

For citation: Chown S.L. Reflections on Victor Gorshkov’s final work – “Key ecological parameters of immotile versus locomotive life”. Russian Journal of Ecosystem Ecology. 2020;5(2). Available from: https://doi.org/10.21685/2500-0578-2020-2-4