According to the theory of island biogeography, which of the following is not an island ecosystem?

Question

a.
A mountain with thriving vegetation surrounded by an arid desert.
b.
The open ocean.
c.
Grasslands that surround a lake.
d.
A cave within the forests of the Appalachian Mountains in the Eastern United States.


Please select the best answer from the choices provided
A
B
C
D

Answer 1

The best answer is B: The open ocean.

According to the theory of island biogeography, an island can be considered any habitat that is isolated and surrounded by different ecosystems, leading to unique biodiversity. An "island" in this context doesn't necessarily have to be a landmass surrounded by water; it can be any habitat that is isolated.

• Option A (mountain surrounded by desert), Option C (grasslands around a lake), and Option D (cave in the forest) can all be considered isolated ecosystems.

The open ocean, however, is not an island ecosystem in the same sense; it is vast and generally not isolated from other marine areas in a way that affects habitat structure and biodiversity.