An Official Journal of the British Ecological Society. Functional Ecology is the youngest of the journals of the British Ecological Society. It publishes short original papers in a wide range of ecological topics, but particularly emphasizes the fields of physiological, biophysical and evolutionary ecology. The Journal accepts experimental, observational or theoretical studies on terrestrial, freshwater or marine systems, and especially welcomes papers that span these subject areas. In addition to standard research papers, technical reports and review articles, Functional Ecology publishes occasional Forum articles - these present new ideas, opinions or responses to published material and often stimulate lively debate.