APES Topics 2.3-2.5

Flashcards for Island Biogeography, Ecological Tolerance, and Natural Disruptions

Island Biogeography

The study of the ecological relationships and distribution of organisms on islands and the community's structure.

Island Size and Species

Larger islands support more total species due to greater diversity, more food habitats, and more niches.

Island Proximity and Species

Islands closer to the mainland support more species because it is easier for colonizing organisms to reach them, leading to more genetic diversity.

Island Evolution

Unique conditions that lead species to adapt to narrower niches.

Niche

The role a species plays in an ecosystem, including its habitat, resources, and interactions.

Adaptive Radiation

When a single species rapidly evolves into several new species to use different resources and reduce competition.

Ecological Tolerance

The range of conditions (temperature, salinity, pH, sunlight) an organism can endure before injury or death.

Optimal Range

Where organisms survive, grow, and reproduce with a high population.

Zone of Physiological Stress

Range where organisms survive, but experience stress such as reduced fertility, lack of growth, or decreased activity.

Zone of Intolerance

Where organisms die due to factors like starvation, lack of oxygen, or thermal shock.

Natural Disruption

A natural event that disrupts the structure and/or function of an ecosystem.

Periodic Disruption

Occurs with regular/consistent frequencies.

Episodic Disruption

Occasional events with irregular frequencies.

Random Disruption

No regular frequency.