Ecological stoichiometry (ES) studies the balance of energy and chemical elements in ecological interactions. Originating from lake plankton research, ES has expanded to include streams, soils, grasslands, and forests. This article provides a guide to recent ES literature, foundational papers, and applications in biochemical, evolutionary, and ecological contexts. ES remains dynamic, with over 6,100 annual citations in ISI Web of Science. Key works include Elser et al. (1996) and Sterner & Elser (2002), which integrate ES into broader ecological and evolutionary frameworks. The "Growth Rate Hypothesis" links C:N:P ratios to growth rates, while the "Threshold Elemental Ratio" (TER) identifies critical nutrient limits for organisms. ES has also influenced resource ratio theory, linking nutrient availability to species coexistence and competition. Studies on plant and animal stoichiometry reveal how elemental imbalances affect growth, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem dynamics. Factors like temperature, nitrogen deposition, and microbial activity influence stoichiometric patterns. Biotic factors, such as nutrient cycling and microbial decomposition, further shape ecosystem stoichiometry. Stoichiometric imbalances impact consumers, competition, and trophic interactions, with implications for ecosystem stability and biodiversity. ES has advanced understanding of resource competition, food web dynamics, and the role of elemental ratios in ecological processes. The field continues to evolve, integrating new data and theoretical models to address global environmental challenges.Ecological stoichiometry (ES) studies the balance of energy and chemical elements in ecological interactions. Originating from lake plankton research, ES has expanded to include streams, soils, grasslands, and forests. This article provides a guide to recent ES literature, foundational papers, and applications in biochemical, evolutionary, and ecological contexts. ES remains dynamic, with over 6,100 annual citations in ISI Web of Science. Key works include Elser et al. (1996) and Sterner & Elser (2002), which integrate ES into broader ecological and evolutionary frameworks. The "Growth Rate Hypothesis" links C:N:P ratios to growth rates, while the "Threshold Elemental Ratio" (TER) identifies critical nutrient limits for organisms. ES has also influenced resource ratio theory, linking nutrient availability to species coexistence and competition. Studies on plant and animal stoichiometry reveal how elemental imbalances affect growth, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem dynamics. Factors like temperature, nitrogen deposition, and microbial activity influence stoichiometric patterns. Biotic factors, such as nutrient cycling and microbial decomposition, further shape ecosystem stoichiometry. Stoichiometric imbalances impact consumers, competition, and trophic interactions, with implications for ecosystem stability and biodiversity. ES has advanced understanding of resource competition, food web dynamics, and the role of elemental ratios in ecological processes. The field continues to evolve, integrating new data and theoretical models to address global environmental challenges.