Complexity exists in systems with simple architecture. The unit of
architecture, in this context, is a predator–prey community. In case another predator
invades the patch in which this community inhabits, temporal dynamics would go
chaotic. Chaotic dynamics is characterized by short–term predictability. This leads to
Predator-induced phenotypic plasticity. It has been found in Daphnia‘s Neuro -
physiological mechanisms of Ad hoc environmental phenotypic adaptation. Induced
defenses in Daphnia; a prey for fish, phantom midge larvae, tadpoles, and several
aquatic insects, engage in predation-specific chemical cues that signal increased
predation risk. Identification of friends and foes is facilitated by Chemo-receptors in
Daphnia. Olfactory receptor (OR) neurons belong to the G – protein-coupled – receptor
super family. These neurons get activated when air-borne molecules bind to ORs
expressed on their cilia. Transport of goods and services involves the movement of
vehicles that release NO2
into the environment.
Molecular switches on plant leaves help sense their environment. These switches are
10-15 m long molecules made of femto particles. Animals and ‘social animals’
(individual humans living in different societies) interact with each other through
members of G – protein-coupled receptor superfamily. Animals consume plants that
provide food, fodder, fuel, and fiber for the growing human population. Social Capital,
a network of relationships among people in an efficient society, creates Human
capital; good health, and knowledge of things, which are useful for the execution of
duties of an employee in a company. The chapter provides a crisp description of all that
goes into different aspects of human ecology. This discipline puts humans on the center
stage. An integration of this discipline with neurosciences would broaden the scope of
both disciplines.
Keywords: Anthropocentric, Complex systems, Cultural dimensions, Dynamical complexity, G-protein, Human capital, Hierarchical structures, Neuroscience, Predator-prey community, Predator-induced phenotypic plasticity, Receptor superfamily, Social environments, Social capital, Sustainable development.
