Asked by Taylor Marler on Apr 27, 2024
Verified
What is provided by disturbances of most terrestrial ecosystems?
A) increased biodiversity and opportunities for late successional species
B) stabilized biodiversity and opportunities for early successional species
C) increased biodiversity and opportunities for early successional species
D) stabilized biodiversity and opportunities for late successional species
Terrestrial Ecosystems
Ecosystems found on land, characterized by distinct biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components, interacting in a specific area.
Biodiversity
The assortment of all living organisms across different habitats, from terrestrial to aquatic environments, emphasizing the importance of ecological balance.
Successional Species
Successional species are plants and animals that colonize an ecosystem following a disturbance, playing a crucial role in ecological succession towards a stable climax community.
- Examine the contribution and implications of perturbations on the composition, processes, and heterogeneity of ecosystems.
Verified Answer
AG
Adalee GuerreroMay 03, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Disturbances in most terrestrial ecosystems typically lead to an increase in biodiversity as new species can colonize the area. These disturbances also create opportunities for early successional species, which are better adapted to take advantage of open resources and rapidly reproduce. Late successional species, on the other hand, typically require more stable conditions and do not thrive in disturbed environments. Therefore, the best answer is C - increased biodiversity and opportunities for early successional species.
Learning Objectives
- Examine the contribution and implications of perturbations on the composition, processes, and heterogeneity of ecosystems.