Understanding Biogeography and Ecology

Front

What is biogeography?

Back

Biogeography is the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space and through geological time.

Front

Define ecological tolerance.

Back

Ecological tolerance refers to the range of environmental conditions that a species can withstand.

Front

What is species richness?

Back

Species richness is the number of different species represented in a given ecological community.

Front

Explain the theory of island biogeography.

Back

The theory of island biogeography explains how the size and distance of an island from the mainland affect the number of species that can inhabit it.

Front

What is the relationship between island size and species diversity?

Back

Larger islands tend to support more species due to greater habitat diversity and resources.

Front

How does distance from the mainland affect species immigration to islands?

Back

Islands that are closer to the mainland typically receive more immigrant species than those that are farther away.

Front

What is the significance of ecological niches in species distribution?

Back

Ecological niches define how species interact with their environment and other species, influencing their distribution.

Front

What role does habitat fragmentation play in biodiversity?

Back

Habitat fragmentation can lead to isolated populations, reducing genetic diversity and increasing extinction risk.

Front

Define endemic species.

Back

Endemic species are species that are native to and found only within a specific geographic area.

Front

What is the impact of climate change on species distribution?

Back

Climate change can alter habitats, forcing species to migrate, adapt, or face extinction.