All Flashcards
What is 'anthropogenic'?
Caused by humans.
Define 'resistance' in ecology.
How much an ecosystem changes after a disturbance; high resistance means little change.
Define 'resilience' in ecology.
How quickly an ecosystem recovers from a disturbance; high resilience means quick recovery.
What are 'early succession species'?
Pioneer species that thrive in disturbed areas, needing fewer nutrients.
What are 'late succession species'?
Species that require stable conditions and come later in ecological succession.
Define 'disturbance' in an ecosystem.
An event that disrupts ecosystem structure and function.
What is 'species diversity'?
The variety of different species within a given area.
What is meant by 'seasonal change'?
Changes that occur regularly, like hurricane season.
Define 'episodic change'.
Events that happen in stages, such as volcanic eruptions.
Define 'random change'.
Unpredictable events like a single lightning strike.
Explain the concept of ecosystem change.
Ecosystems are dynamic and constantly changing due to natural and anthropogenic factors.
What is the significance of resistance in an ecosystem?
High resistance means the ecosystem shows little change after a disturbance.
What is the significance of resilience in an ecosystem?
High resilience means the ecosystem recovers quickly after a disturbance.
Explain the Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis.
Maximum species diversity occurs at an intermediate level of disturbance.
Why is moderate disturbance important for biodiversity?
Allows both early and late succession species to coexist.
What is the effect of glacier melting on coastal areas?
Leads to sea level rise and increased flooding.
What is the effect of low disturbance on species diversity?
Dominated by late succession species, leading to lower diversity.
What is the effect of high disturbance on species diversity?
Only early succession species can survive, leading to lower diversity.
How does climate change affect ecosystem resilience?
Can reduce resilience by causing more frequent and intense disturbances.