Unit 2.5: Natural Disruptions to Ecosystems

Natural Disturbance

A disruptive natural event affecting ecosystem structure and function

Energy and Matter Cycling

The flow of energy and nutrients through an ecosystem

Displace Organisms

To force organisms to leave their original habitat

Reshape Ecosystem

To alter the structure and composition of an ecosystem

Tornadoes

Violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground

Asteroid Impact

Collision of an asteroid with Earth's surface

Periodic Event

An event occurring at regular intervals, like wet and dry seasons

Episodic Event

An event occurring somewhat frequently but not predictably

Random Event

An event that occurs unpredictably, like earthquakes

Natural Climate Change

Long-term variations in Earth's climate due to natural factors

Ice Ages

Periods of extensive glacial coverage on Earth

Orbital Changes

Variations in Earth's orbit affecting climate over time

Carbon Dioxide Levels

Variations in the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere

Human-Driven Climate Change

Climate change primarily caused by human activities

Sea Level Rise

Increase in the average level of the ocean surface

Polar Ice Caps

Mass of ice covering the polar regions of Earth

Positive Feedback Loop

A cycle where a change leads to further similar changes

Carbon Dioxide Peaks

Periods of increased CO2 levels warming the atmosphere

Thermal Expansion

Warmer ocean causing water molecules to spread, raising sea levels

Habitat Destruction

Widespread loss or alteration of environments

Coastal Estuaries

Brackish areas flooded by rising sea levels, impacting species

Salt Marshes

Estuarine habitats affected by sea level rise

Mangroves

Coastal trees impacted by rising sea levels

Aquatic Plants

Underwater flora affected by sea level rise

Migration

Species movement due to environmental changes

Wildebeest Migration

Movement following rainy season for water and food

Ocean Species Migration

Shift north due to warming waters and new ranges

Bird Migration Patterns

Changes in timing due to climate-induced insect hatching shifts

Caterpillar Hatching Date

Shifts affecting bird food supply and migration timing

First Leaf Date Change

Shift in plant blooming times due to climate change

Latitude Relationship

Correlation between distance from equator and plant blooming changes