Shannon's Index in AP Environmental Science

Definition

Shannon's Index is a measure of biodiversity that takes into account both species richness and evenness within a community. It quantifies the uncertainty associated with predicting the identity of an individual randomly selected from the community.

Related terms

Simpson's Diversity Index:

Another measure used to quantify biodiversity by considering both richness and evenness but with emphasis on dominant species.

Ecological Niche:

The specific role and position occupied by an organism within its environment, including its interactions with other organisms and its use of resources.

Keystone Species: A species whose presence is crucial for maintaining the balance and stability of an ecosystem due to its unique ecological roles or functions.