Ecosystem Resistance
Definition
Ecosystem resistance is the ability of an ecosystem to withstand or recover from disturbances without undergoing significant changes in structure or function. It indicates how well an ecosystem can resist damage and maintain its stability.
Analogy
Think of ecosystem resistance as a superhero's shield. Just like a shield protects a superhero from harm, ecosystem resistance helps protect ecosystems from being severely impacted by disturbances like pollution or habitat loss.
Related terms
Biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety and abundance of different species within an ecosystem. Higher biodiversity often correlates with greater ecosystem resilience and resistance.
Keystone species: Keystone species are organisms that have a disproportionately large impact on their environment relative to their abundance. Their presence is crucial for maintaining the balance and functioning of an entire ecosystem.
Ecological succession: Ecological succession is the process by which an ecological community gradually changes over time after a disturbance, eventually leading to the development of a stable and mature ecosystem.
"Ecosystem Resistance" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (2)
- What do ecosystem resistance and resilience measure?
- How does biodiversity contribute to ecosystem resistance and resilience?
Resources
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