Species Diversity
Definition
Species diversity refers to the variety of different species present in a particular ecosystem or on Earth. It includes both the number of species present and their relative abundance.
Analogy
Imagine going to a buffet with a wide variety of dishes. The more different types of dishes there are, and the more evenly distributed they are, the higher the species diversity. Just like how a diverse buffet offers many options for everyone's taste buds, high species diversity ensures a balanced ecosystem with various organisms thriving together.
Related terms
Biodiversity: A broader term encompassing all levels of biological variation, including genetic diversity within species and ecosystem diversity.
Endangered Species: Species at risk of extinction due to factors such as habitat loss or overhunting.
Keystone Species: A species whose presence is crucial for maintaining an ecosystem's structure and function.
"Species Diversity" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (3)
- Are ecosystems with higher levels of productivity often associated with higher levels of species diversity?
- How does species diversity help maintain the health of ecosystems?
- What type of disturbance allows both early and late succession species to survive simultaneously, leading to maximum species diversity?
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.