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Ecological integrity
Function & outcome
The degree to which the composition, structure, and function of an ecosystem remain within an appropriate natural or historical range of variation. The relevant reference condition or range should therefore be identified rather than treating integrity as an absolute state.
Karr, J. R., & Dudley, D. R. (1981). Ecological perspective on water quality goals. Environmental Management, 5, 55–68. Karr, J. R. (1993). Defining and assessing ecological integrity: Beyond water quality. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 12(9), 1521–1531.
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