Island Biogeography and Species Adaptation

These flashcards cover key concepts in island biogeography, species adaptation, and the impact of habitat fragmentation.

What is island biogeography?

The study of ecological relationships and distribution of organisms on islands, and of these organisms' community structure.

Who is considered the Father of Taxonomy?

Carl Linnaeus.

What theory did Robert McArthur and E.O. Wilson develop in 1967?

A theory determining island biogeography based on location, island size, and proximity to the mainland.

What is the Wallace Line?

A location in the Pacific named after Alfred Russel Wallace, highlighting how biodiversity can be influenced by geographical location.

What impact do invasive species have on specialists?

Invasive species, usually generalists, can outcompete specialists and jeopardize their survival.

What is a fragmented habitat?

Habitats that were once intact but have been broken up, often due to human activities like clear-cutting.

What is the significance of habitat corridors?

They are built by humans to allow large mammals to cross roads safely, thus maintaining genetic diversity in fragmented environments.

Why is species richness higher on large islands near the mainland?

Larger size and proximity to the mainland allow for greater colonization and resource availability.