Resistance

Definition

Resistance refers to the ability of an ecosystem to withstand disturbances and maintain its essential functions and structures. This capacity is crucial for the resilience of ecosystems, allowing them to recover from changes and stresses while sustaining biodiversity and productivity. Ecosystems with high resistance can absorb shocks without undergoing significant alterations, thus playing a key role in their overall health and stability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ecosystems with higher biodiversity often demonstrate greater resistance, as a variety of species can fulfill similar ecological roles.
2. Resistance can be influenced by both biotic factors, like species interactions, and abiotic factors, such as climate and soil conditions.
3. While resistance helps ecosystems absorb disturbances, it doesn't necessarily prevent changes; it allows for adaptation instead.
4. Some ecosystems are inherently more resistant than others, such as mature forests compared to newly established ones.
5. Monitoring resistance is important for conservation efforts, as understanding how ecosystems respond to stress can inform management strategies.

Review Questions

• How does biodiversity contribute to the resistance of an ecosystem?
  • Biodiversity enhances the resistance of an ecosystem by providing a range of species that can perform similar functions. This redundancy allows the ecosystem to maintain its essential processes even if certain species are affected by disturbances. A diverse community is more likely to withstand changes and recover effectively, as different species can compensate for the loss or decline of others.
• Evaluate the relationship between resistance and resilience in ecosystems, providing examples of each.
  • Resistance and resilience are closely related concepts in ecology. Resistance refers to the ability to withstand disturbances without changing significantly, while resilience refers to the capacity to recover after being affected by those disturbances. For example, a coral reef may be highly resistant to temperature fluctuations but may still show signs of stress if temperatures exceed a critical threshold. In contrast, a grassland might be less resistant to drought but resilient enough to rebound quickly when normal rainfall resumes.
• Synthesize how understanding resistance can influence conservation strategies for vulnerable ecosystems.
  • Understanding resistance is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies for vulnerable ecosystems. By identifying factors that enhance resistance, such as maintaining biodiversity or restoring native species, conservation efforts can be tailored to bolster ecosystems against disturbances. For instance, protecting diverse habitats in coastal regions can enhance their resistance to storms and sea-level rise, ensuring long-term sustainability. This proactive approach emphasizes the importance of preserving ecological functions that promote resistance, ultimately aiding in ecosystem stability amid environmental change.

Related terms

Ecosystem Resilience: The ability of an ecosystem to recover quickly from disturbances and return to its original state.

Disturbance: An event that disrupts the structure or function of an ecosystem, such as natural disasters or human activities.

Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular ecosystem, contributing to its resilience and resistance to disturbances.