Biodiversity and Succession Review

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What is habitat fragmentation?

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Habitat fragmentation refers to the process where large, continuous habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, often due to human activities like urban development, agriculture, and road construction. This can lead to a decrease in biodiversity as species lose their natural habitats.

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What is a climax community?

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A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that has reached a steady state in the later stages of ecological succession. It is characterized by a complex structure and a diverse array of species.

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What are invasive species?

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Invasive species are non-native organisms that spread widely in a new environment, often due to a lack of natural predators or competition. They can disrupt local ecosystems and outcompete native species.

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What does equilibrium mean in an ecological context?

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Equilibrium in ecology refers to a state where a community is stable and balanced, with species populations remaining relatively constant over time, despite environmental changes.

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What is primary succession?

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Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat. It begins with pioneer species that can colonize bare rock.

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What is secondary succession?

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Secondary succession is the ecological process that occurs in an area where a disturbance has destroyed a community but left the soil intact, such as after a forest fire or flood. It typically occurs faster than primary succession.

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What are pioneer species?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously uninhabited or disturbed environments. They play a crucial role in soil formation and ecosystem development during primary succession.

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystem diversity. It is essential for ecosystem resilience and function.

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What is the impact of pollution on biodiversity?

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Pollution can have detrimental effects on biodiversity by contaminating air, water, and soil, leading to habitat degradation, species decline, and loss of ecosystem services.

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What is the role of keystone species?

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Keystone species are species that have a disproportionately large impact on their ecosystem relative to their abundance. Their presence or absence can significantly affect the structure and diversity of the community.