What happens to ecosystems with high biodiversity?

• A. They become more vulnerable to disturbances
• B. They exhibit lower productivity
• C. They have improved resilience to changes
• D. They support a single dominant species

Answer: (C)

High biodiversity within ecosystems is associated with improved resilience to changes. This stems from the idea that various species perform different roles; the more diverse a community is, the greater the chance that some species will thrive in the face of environmental changes such as climate fluctuations, disease outbreaks, or habitat loss. This diversity allows ecosystems to maintain functionality and recover from disturbances more effectively.

For example, if a particular plant species is affected by a disease, other species may still continue to grow and support the ecosystem's structure and function. Similarly, diverse populations can provide a buffer against invasive species and other ecological threats. The redundancy of roles played by different species (where multiple species can fulfill the same ecological role) enhances the overall stability and adaptability of the ecosystem.

In contrast, ecosystems with lower biodiversity may struggle to recover from disturbances, leading to shifts in community dynamics and potential collapse. Thus, the presence of various species contributes significantly to an ecosystem’s ability to cope with changes and recover from disturbances, underscoring the importance of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecological systems.