Several factors determine the degree of diversity in an ecosystem. Con...
• Both statements are correct
Factors determining the degree of diversity in an ecosystem
• The level of diversity in an ecosystem is determined by several factors:
1. Habitat Stress: Diversity is low in areas under any stress like harsh climate or pollution.
2. Geographical Isolation: Diversity is less in isolated regions like islands. If a species in an island disappears due to random events, it cannot be easily replaced. Organisms from the mainland have difficulties in reaching and colonizing the island.
3. Dominance by one species: The dominant species consume a disproportionate share of resources which does not allow many species to evolve and flourish.
4. Availability of ecological niches: A complex community offers a greater variety of niches than a simple community and promotes greater diversity.
5. Edge Effect: There is always a greater diversity in ecotones or transition areas between ecosystems.
6. Geological History: Old and stable ecosystems like rain forests that have not experienced many changes have high diversity. An ecosystem like Arctic has undergone many changes and this does not allow many species to establish themselves.
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Several factors determine the degree of diversity in an ecosystem. Con...
Explanation:
Statement 1: An ecosystem dominated by one single species supports lesser biodiversity.
This statement is correct. Biodiversity refers to the variety of species in an ecosystem. When an ecosystem is dominated by a single species, it means that there are fewer species present in that ecosystem. This reduces the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem. A lack of biodiversity can have negative impacts on the stability and functioning of the ecosystem. For example, if a disease or environmental change affects the dominant species, it can have a significant impact on the entire ecosystem.
Statement 2: Higher the variety of niches in an ecosystem, greater is the diversity.
This statement is also correct. A niche refers to the role or position that a species has within its environment. It includes factors such as the resources it uses, the interactions it has with other species, and the conditions it can tolerate. When there are a greater variety of niches in an ecosystem, it means that there are more opportunities for different species to occupy different roles and utilize different resources. This leads to a greater diversity of species within the ecosystem. Each species has its own niche, and the interactions between different species contribute to the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.
Conclusion:
Both statements are correct. An ecosystem dominated by a single species will have lower biodiversity, while an ecosystem with a greater variety of niches will have higher biodiversity. These factors play a significant role in determining the degree of diversity in an ecosystem.