Biotic homogenization

Definition

Biotic homogenization is the process by which local biological communities become more similar to one another due to the spread of invasive species and the decline of native species. This phenomenon often leads to a reduction in biodiversity as native species are replaced or outcompeted, resulting in ecosystems that are less distinct and more uniform across different regions. As invasive species thrive, they can alter habitat structures, resource availability, and ecological interactions, further contributing to this loss of biological diversity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Biotic homogenization often results from human activities, such as global trade and travel, which facilitate the spread of invasive species across different habitats.
2. The loss of native species can disrupt food webs and ecological functions, leading to less resilient ecosystems that are less able to recover from disturbances.
3. Biotic homogenization can impact not only ecological stability but also the cultural values associated with local biodiversity, affecting recreation and tourism.
4. This process contributes to a global decline in biodiversity, threatening ecosystems that are critical for services like clean water and air, climate regulation, and soil fertility.
5. One example of biotic homogenization is the spread of common invasive plants that dominate landscapes, replacing diverse native flora with monocultures that provide less habitat for wildlife.

Review Questions

• How does biotic homogenization affect local ecosystems and biodiversity?
  • Biotic homogenization negatively impacts local ecosystems by reducing the variety of species present. As invasive species outcompete native flora and fauna, the unique characteristics of local biodiversity diminish. This results in ecosystems that are more uniform across different regions, ultimately weakening ecological resilience and disrupting essential ecosystem services.
• In what ways do invasive species contribute to the process of biotic homogenization?
  • Invasive species contribute to biotic homogenization by displacing native species through competition for resources such as food, space, and light. As these invaders proliferate in new environments, they create similar conditions across diverse habitats. This leads to a decrease in local biodiversity and can result in a few dominant species taking over, making ecosystems less distinct from one another.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of biotic homogenization on global ecosystems and human society.
  • The long-term consequences of biotic homogenization include significant declines in global biodiversity, which can disrupt ecosystem services that are vital for human survival such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation. Additionally, with fewer unique species and ecosystems left, cultures that rely on rich biodiversity for their identity and economic activities may face losses in traditional practices like agriculture and fishing. The diminished resilience of ecosystems also means they are less capable of adapting to changes like climate shifts or natural disasters, further compounding the challenges faced by both nature and human societies.

Related terms

Invasive species:

Species that are non-native to a specific ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health.

Biodiversity:

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystem diversity.

Ecological impacts: The effects that organisms and their interactions have on their environment, which can lead to changes in ecosystem structure and function.