Revisiting the problem of astatic ecological optima

Abstract

The development of the concept of an ecological optimum is discussed, and experimental data enabling its revision are analyzed. The published data on the effect of fluctuating ecological factors on various parameters of the vital activity of poikilothermic aquatic organisms and some other organisms are given. The need for terms of stationary (or static) and dynamic (or astatic) optima in modern ecology is discussed. Possible mechanisms of optimization of the vital activity of organisms under conditions of varying factors of the environment are considered.