Monitoring and modelling the effects of ecosystem engineers on ecosystem functioning

Ecosystem engineers modify biophysical environments, create novel habitats, and change biodiversity, with the ultimate effect of modulating critical ecosystem functions. This review describes and synthesises approaches, methodologies, and analytical frameworks for quantifying how ecosystem engineers drive ecosystem functioning.2.We i) outline what variables to measure, how to measure them, and define the appropriate ecological and spatiotemporal scales for monitoring changes in both ecosystem engineers and ecosystem functioning; ii) illustrate experiments involving species exclusion or removal, addition or re-introduction, and comparative designs when experimental manipulation is not feasible; and iii) describe statistical, data-driven, and theory-driven approaches forestimating and forecasting the impact of ecosystem engineers on ecosystem functioning.3.In the Anthropocene, humans are a salient example of an ecosystem engineer. We discuss how to leverage the ecosystem engineer knowledge in the context of current anthropogenic change for achieving conservation, restoration, and climate-mitigation goals.4.We suggest evidence-based models and practises that can facilitate transformative changes in socio-ecological processes associated with ecosystem engineers. We conclude that implementing programs that monitor, forecast and apply the ecosystem engineer framework would sustain biological diversity and functional ecosystems.