Disruptions to Ecosystems

These flashcards cover key terms related to disruptions in ecosystems, including definitions and concepts foundational to understanding ecological dynamics.

Invasive Species

A species that is not native to a specific location and whose introduction can cause harm to the local ecosystem.

Adaptation

A genetic variation that is favored by natural selection, providing an advantage in a specific environment.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Population Dynamics

The study of how and why populations change over time, including factors that influence population size and structure.

Ecosystem Disruption

Changes to an ecosystem that can result from human activities, invasive species, diseases, or natural events.

Mutation

Random changes in the genetic makeup of an organism that can lead to new traits.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

Habitat Change

Alterations in the natural environment that can affect the species that live there.

Geological Events

Natural occurrences such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes that can lead to significant changes in ecosystems.

Meteorological Events

Weather-related occurrences, such as storms or climate changes, that can affect ecosystems.

Overpopulation

When a species' population exceeds the carrying capacity of its ecosystem.

Human Impact

The effect of human activities on the environment and ecosystems.

Irish Potato Famine

A catastrophic period of mass starvation in Ireland from 1845 to 1851 caused by potato blight, which was exacerbated by human agricultural practices.

Ecosystem Structure

The organization and physical arrangement of different species in a community, including their interactions.