Species-area relationship

Definition

The species-area relationship describes the positive correlation between the area of a habitat and the number of species it can support. Larger areas tend to have greater biodiversity due to increased habitat diversity and reduced extinction rates.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The species-area curve typically follows a power law, expressed as S = cA^z, where S is the number of species, A is the area, c is a constant, and z is an exponent.
2. Islands often show a more pronounced species-area relationship due to their isolation and defined boundaries.
3. Habitat fragmentation can disrupt the species-area relationship by reducing contiguous habitats, thus decreasing biodiversity.
4. The concept helps in designing nature reserves by emphasizing the importance of size for maintaining biodiversity.
5. A larger area generally reduces edge effects, which are detrimental to some species.

Review Questions

• What mathematical model is commonly used to describe the species-area relationship?
• How does habitat fragmentation affect the species-area relationship?
• Why is the species-area relationship important for conservation efforts?

Related terms

Biodiversity Hotspot: A region with a high level of endemic species that is under threat from humans.

Edge Effects:

Changes in population or community structures that occur at the boundary of two habitats.

Habitat Fragmentation: The process through which large continuous habitats are divided into smaller, isolated sections.