Habitat Fragmentation and Its Ecological Impact

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to habitat fragmentation, the effects of road ecology, and the strategies species adopt to cope with fragmentation.

What is habitat fragmentation?

The process where large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, impacting species and ecosystems.

What are patches in habitat fragmentation?

Discrete areas of habitat surrounded by a different matrix, often created by human activity.

What is a corridor in ecological contexts?

A landscape element that connects habitat patches, allowing species movement.

What is the difference between hard and soft edges?

Hard edges, such as agricultural fields, create severe edge effects, while soft edges, like mixed forests, have less impact.

What are the consequences of increasing structural contrast in habitat matrices?

It leads to increased barriers to dispersal and population isolation within habitat fragments.

What are some cascading effects of removing top predators from an ecosystem?

Disruption of food webs, nutrient cycling, and plant-pollinator dynamics.

Why are invasive species often found in disturbed habitats?

Invasive species are typically pioneer or weedy species that thrive in altered environments.

How does fragmentation affect species migration in response to climate change?

It prevents species from migrating due to barriers created by fragmentation and the rapid pace of anthropogenic changes.

What impact do roads have on wildlife?

They cause habitat loss, direct mortality, spread of invasive species, and pollution, among other negative effects.

What measures can help wildlife cross roads safely?

Wildlife overpasses and underpasses can connect fragmented habitats and protect species during crossings.

What threats do Florida panthers face from habitat fragmentation?

Collisions with vehicles and habitat loss that limits their range severely.

What strategies do species use to cope with habitat fragmentation?

Strategies include surviving in the landscape matrix, maintaining viable populations within fragments, and moving among patches.

What characteristics make a species vulnerable to habitat fragmentation?

Specialized habitat requirements, low reproductive and dispersal rates, large home ranges, and human exploitable traits.