Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
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.
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 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 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.