Ecosystem Services, Island Biogeography, and Ecological Succession

Categorization of Pollination: Pollination is often noted as a confusing ecosystem service. It is specifically classified as a regulating service.

Determinants of Species Diversity: The theory of island biogeography states that the physical characteristics of an island dictate its level of biodiversity. The specific combination that produces the most diversity of species is an island that is simultaneously: * Larger in size. * Closer to the source population or mainland.

Range of Tolerance Factors: Ecological tolerance refers to the set of conditions an organism can withstand. Factors that directly influence this range of tolerance include: * Dissolved Oxygen ( $DO$ ) * $pH$ * Temperature * Salinity * Turbidity * Toxins

Natural Selection: Defined by the concept of "survival of the fittest." Under this mechanism, organisms that possess desirable traits are more likely to survive environmental pressures. These survivors then pass on those advantageous traits to future generations through the process of reproduction.
Adaptive Radiation: This is an evolutionary process characterized by the evolution of many species from a single ancestral species. During this process, each emerging species becomes specifically adapted to its particular environment.

Primary Succession: This type of ecosystem evolution takes place in environments where no soil and no remnants of a previous ecosystem remain intact. * Evolutionary Speed: Because it begins from a barren state, it is slower to evolve. * Triggering Events: Examples of events that initiate primary succession include volcanic eruptions, glacial retreat, and the creation of cities. * Pioneer Species: These are the very first organisms to arrive in the area. Notable examples include lichens and mosses. These species are vital because they possess the ability to turn bare rock into soil. * Late Successional Species: These species arrive later in the process and include trees. Their establishment eventually leads to the formation of a climax community.
Secondary Succession: This form of ecosystem evolution occurs in areas where soil or remnants of the previous ecosystem remain intact. * Evolutionary Speed: This process is faster to evolve than primary succession because the foundation for growth already exists. * Triggering Events: Examples of events that lead to secondary succession include forest fires, hurricanes, and floods.