---
title: "Ecosystem Stability — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Ecosystem stability is an ecosystem's ability to hold its structure and function despite disturbances, tied to how shifting environments steer natural selection in AP Bio Unit 7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-bio/key-terms/ecosystem-stability"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Biology"
---

# Ecosystem Stability — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Ecosystem stability refers to the ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure and function despite disturbances or changes in conditions.

## Related Study Guides

- [7.1 Introduction to Natural Selection](/ap-bio/unit-7/intro-natural-selection/study-guide/v9Lf9qQpmpSXvd2ZUOqH)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Resilience: This is the capacity of an ecosystem to recover quickly from disturbances or damages, just like how quickly a bike recovers after hitting a bump.
- Resistance: This is the ability of an ecosystem to remain unchanged despite disturbances or changes in conditions, similar to how a sturdy bike remains undamaged even after hitting several bumps.
- [Biodiversity](/ap-bio/key-terms/biodiversity): This refers to the variety of life within an ecosystem. It's like having different types of tools in your repair kit - the more variety you have, the better equipped you are to fix any issues that come up with your bike.