What makes an ecosystem extra resilient to change/keeps it stable?

Answer 1

There are several factors that can make an ecosystem more resilient to change and keep it stable:

1. Biodiversity: Ecosystems with a high diversity of species are generally more resilient as different species have different roles and functions within the ecosystem. This ensures that even if some species are affected by change, others can compensate and maintain stability.

2. Redundancy: Having multiple species or functional groups that perform similar roles within an ecosystem provides redundancy. If one species or group is impacted by change, others can step in and perform those functions, thereby maintaining stability.

3. Connectivity: The presence of connectivity and ecological corridors can help organisms move and disperse, allowing them to adapt to changes in their environment. This movement ensures that populations or communities can recover or migrate to suitable habitats, enhancing the stability of the ecosystem.

4. Adaptive capacity: Ecosystems with the ability to adapt to changing conditions are more resistant to disturbances. This adaptability can come from the genetic diversity of species within the ecosystem and their capacity to evolve and adjust to new conditions.

5. Nutrient cycling: Efficient nutrient cycling is crucial for ecosystem stability. Ecosystems with well-established and efficient nutrient cycles can maintain productivity and support the needs of organisms even under changing conditions.

6. Disturbance regimes: Natural disturbances like wildfires, floods, or pest outbreaks can help to regulate and maintain ecosystem stability. Regular disturbances can prevent the domination of certain species or the accumulation of excessive biomass, promoting resilience and enhancing the ability of an ecosystem to bounce back from disturbances.

7. Strong feedback mechanisms: Ecosystems with effective feedback mechanisms are self-regulating, which helps maintain stability. These feedback mechanisms can include predator-prey interactions, competition, or symbiotic relationships, which regulate population sizes and maintain ecological balance.

8. Conservation and protection measures: Implementation of conservation measures and protection of ecosystems can help reduce direct human impacts on ecosystems, supporting their stability. Proper management and regulations can help maintain the integrity of an ecosystem, minimize disturbances, and preserve biodiversity.

It is important to note that no ecosystem is fully immune to change, but these factors increase the resiliency and stability, making them better able to withstand and recover from disturbances.