Lecture 6: Biogeography and Biomes

Species Distribution

geographic area where a species is found

dispersal

the movement of individuals from one location to another

dispersal limitation

when distribution and abundance are restricted by limitation in their ability to move and colonize new areas

Environment

the abiotic and biotic conditions that influence the survival and distribution of organisms

biotic limit

Constraints on species distribution caused by interactions with other living organisms, such as competition, predation, or disease

abiotic limit

Constraints imposed by non-living environmental factors, such as temperature, water availability, or soil type.

biotic

living components of the environment

abiotic

non-living components of the environment

behavior

ctions of organisms, including migration, habitat selection, and social interactions, which influence where species are found.

environmental gradient

A gradual change in environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, moisture, or soil type) across a geographic area, influencing species distribution.

climate

long-term patterns of temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions in a region, which play a major role in determining species distribution.

biome

A large ecological region characterized by specific climate conditions, vegetation, and species adapted to those conditions (e.g., desert, rainforest, tundra)

elevation

The height above sea level, affecting climate, temperature, oxygen levels, and species distribution due to changing environmental conditions.

latitude

The distance north or south of the equator, affecting climate and biodiversity patterns

Maritime Climate

A climate influenced by proximity to oceans or large bodies of water, characterized by mild temperatures and high humidity with smaller seasonal variations

Continental Climate

A climate found in inland areas, with larger temperature fluctuations between summer and winter due to a lack of moderating ocean influence.