Landscape Ecology

Question 1

landscape

Answer 1

heterogeneous area composed of several ecosystems

- mosaic of distinctive patches (landscape elements)

Question 2

landscape structure features

Answer 2

size, shape, number and position of patches or landscape elements

Question 3

path

Answer 3

relatively homogenous area that differs from its surroundings

• form a mosaic
• background is the matrix (inhospitable like a paddock)

Question 4

Shape indicator (S)

Answer 4

~ 1 round

large - irregular long

Question 5

ecotones

Answer 5

physical and biological transitions from one ecosystem type to another
- increases with habitat fragmentation

Question 6

edge effect

Answer 6

ecotones may be distinctive and have higher species richness to surrounding ecosystems
- increases with habitat fragmentation

Question 7

fractal geometry

Answer 7

quantifies structure of complex natural shapes

- organisms of different sizes may be able to use ecosystems in very different ways

Question 8

landscape processes

Answer 8

structure influences processes such as flow of energy, materials and species

• size, number and isolation of patches influences movement of organisms
• groups of subpopulations living on patches make up metapopulations

Question 9

fragmented landscapes

Answer 9

smaller proportion of individuals move

- individuals move further

Question 10

isolated patches

Answer 10

• population density may be lower
• may be more vulnerable to extinction
• habitat corridors increase movement

Question 11

geological features on landscape

Answer 11

volcanism, sedimentation, erosions interact with climate to produce structure
- may produce a soil mosaic

Question 12

organisms on landscape

Answer 12

beavers, humans

Question 13

fire on landscape

Answer 13

changes it, prominent in meditteranean systems

Question 14

urban heat islands

Answer 14

hotter with less plants and more infrastructure