Biogeography Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #49

By Blake Pieck

1st Edition of my Physical Geography Part Two Dictionary focuses on Biogeography. Covering over 1290 words and phrases.

 

Embark on a fascinating exploration of geography with the illuminating Physical Geography Part 2 Dictionary - Biogeography.

 

This comprehensive dictionary offers an in-depth examination of the distribution of life on Earth and the ecological and evolutionary processes that shape these patterns. Covering a wide range of topics, from the influence of climate and terrain on species distribution to the impact of human activities on ecosystems, this dictionary provides detailed definitions and explanations of key concepts and terms.

 

Whether you're a student, researcher, or nature enthusiast, this resource is designed to enhance your understanding of the complex interactions between organisms and their environments. Explore the fascinating intersections of geography, ecology, and evolution with this indispensable guide to biogeography.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Blake Pieck
• Release date: Jun 2, 2024
• ISBN: 9798227544506

Book preview

Biogeography Dictionary

A

Abiotic Factors   -   Biogeography, Environmental Influences   -   Abiotic factors are the non-living physical and chemical components of an ecosystem, such as temperature, light, and soil composition. These factors significantly influence the distribution and behavior of living organisms in various biogeographical regions. 

Abiotic Stress   -   Biogeography, Environmental Influences   -   Abiotic stress refers to the negative impact of non-living factors, such as temperature extremes, drought, and salinity, on organisms. Understanding how species cope with abiotic stress is crucial for studying their distribution and survival in different environments. 

Acclimatization   -   Biogeography, Adaptation Processes   -   Acclimatization refers to the physiological and behavioral adjustments organisms make in response to changes in their environment. This process helps species survive and thrive in new or varying conditions. 

Adaptation   -   Biogeography, Evolutionary Processes   -   Adaptation refers to the process by which organisms adjust to new environments or changes in their current environment. These changes enhance their survival and reproductive success, shaping the distribution and diversity of species in different biogeographical regions. 

Adaptive Radiation   -   Biogeography, Evolutionary Processes   -   Adaptive radiation is the rapid evolution of diversely adapted species from a common ancestor, often following environmental changes or colonization of new habitats. This process helps explain the diversity and distribution of species in different biogeographical regions. 

Aeolian Processes   -   Biogeography, Geological Processes   -   Aeolian processes involve the erosion, transport, and deposition of sediments by wind. These processes shape landscapes such as deserts and coastal dunes, influencing habitat structure and species distribution. 

Agricultural Biomes   -   Biogeography, Human-Modified Environments   -   Agricultural biomes are regions transformed by farming activities, including croplands and pastures. These biomes are shaped by human practices and have distinct ecological characteristics compared to natural ecosystems. 

Agroecosystem   -   Biogeography, Human-Modified Environments   -   An agroecosystem is an ecosystem created and managed by humans for agricultural production. Understanding agroecosystems is important for studying the impact of agriculture on biodiversity, species interactions, and ecological processes. 

Albedo Effect   -   Biogeography, Climate Influence   -   The albedo effect refers to the reflectivity of a surface, influencing how much solar energy is absorbed or reflected. This effect impacts local and global climate patterns, affecting the distribution and behavior of species. 

Algal Bloom   -   Biogeography, Aquatic Phenomena   -   An algal bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in a water body, often resulting from nutrient pollution. These blooms can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems, affecting water quality and the distribution of aquatic species. 

Algal Succession   -   Biogeography, Ecological Succession   -   Algal succession is the sequential change in algal species composition and abundance over time in a particular habitat. This process reflects environmental changes and interactions among species, shaping aquatic ecosystems. 

Alien Species   -   Biogeography, Invasive Species   -   Alien species, also known as non-native or introduced species, are organisms that have been transported to and established in regions outside their natural range. These species can significantly alter local ecosystems, affecting native species and ecological processes. 

Allee Effect   -   Biogeography, Population Dynamics   -   The Allee effect describes a phenomenon where a population’s growth rate decreases as the population density decreases. This effect can influence species survival and distribution, especially in small, isolated populations. 

Allele Frequency   -   Biogeography, Genetic Diversity   -   Allele frequency is the relative proportion of different alleles of a gene in a population. Studying allele frequencies helps biogeographers understand genetic variation and evolutionary processes affecting species distribution. 

Allelic Variation   -   Biogeography, Genetic Diversity   -   Allelic variation refers to the diversity of alleles (different forms of a gene) within a population. High allelic variation is important for the adaptability and long-term survival of species in changing environments. 

Allelopathy   -   Biogeography, Species Interactions   -   Allelopathy is a biological phenomenon where one plant species releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of nearby plants. This interaction plays a significant role in plant community structure and species distribution in different habitats. 

Allochthonous Species   -   Biogeography, Species Origins   -   Allochthonous species are those that originate from a different geographic area and have migrated to a new region. This concept contrasts with autochthonous species and is important for understanding species distribution and biogeographical patterns. 

Allopatric Speciation   -   Biogeography, Evolutionary Processes   -   Allopatric speciation occurs when populations of a species become geographically isolated, leading to the formation of new species. This process is key to understanding biodiversity and species distribution in different regions. 

Alpine Tundra   -   Biogeography, Ecosystem Types   -   Alpine tundra refers to the biome found at high mountain elevations, characterized by cold temperatures, high winds, and a short growing season. This environment supports specialized plant and animal species adapted to extreme conditions. 

Altitudinal Zonation   -   Biogeography, Species Distribution   -   Altitudinal zonation describes the way in which different plant and animal species are distributed at various elevations on mountains. This phenomenon reflects the influence of altitude on climate, soil, and other ecological factors. 

Alvar   -   Biogeography, Habitat Types   -   An alvar is a unique habitat characterized by a thin soil layer over limestone bedrock, supporting specialized plant and animal communities. These habitats are often found in regions with specific climatic and geological conditions. 

Amphibian Declines   -   Biogeography, Conservation Issues   -   Amphibian declines refer to the global reduction in amphibian populations due to factors like habitat loss, pollution, disease, and climate change. These declines have significant implications for biodiversity and ecosystem health. 

Anadromous Species   -   Biogeography, Life History Strategies   -   Anadromous species are fish that migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers to spawn. This life history strategy influences their distribution and plays a key role in the ecological dynamics of both marine and freshwater ecosystems. 

Anadromy   -   Biogeography, Life History Strategies   -   Anadromy refers to the migration pattern of fish that move from the sea to freshwater to spawn. This strategy affects their ecological roles and distribution across different habitats. 

Anemochory   -   Biogeography, Dispersal Mechanisms   -   Anemochory refers to the dispersal of seeds or spores by wind. This mechanism allows plants to colonize new areas, influencing the spatial distribution of species across various landscapes. 

Anemophilous Species   -   Biogeography, Pollination Mechanisms   -   Anemophilous species are plants that rely on wind for pollination. This adaptation influences their reproductive success and distribution, particularly in open and windy habitats. 

Anoxic Zones   -   Biogeography, Aquatic Environments   -   Anoxic zones are areas in aquatic environments with very low or no oxygen. These zones can dramatically affect aquatic life, leading to shifts in species composition and the development of unique ecological communities. 

Antarctic Biome   -   Biogeography, Climate Zones   -   The Antarctic biome is characterized by extreme cold, ice-covered landscapes, and unique species adapted to polar conditions. Research in this biome provides insights into ecological processes and the effects of climate change on polar ecosystems. 

Antarctic Convergence   -   Biogeography, Oceanographic Features   -   The Antarctic Convergence is a circumpolar region where cold, northward-flowing Antarctic waters meet the relatively warmer waters of the sub-Antarctic. This convergence zone creates a distinct boundary that influences marine species distribution and ecological dynamics. 

Anthropocene   -   Biogeography, Temporal Scales   -   The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch that recognizes the significant impact humans have had on Earth’s geology and ecosystems. Understanding this epoch helps biogeographers assess how human activities have altered natural processes and species distributions. 

Anthropogenic Biomes   -   Biogeography, Human Impact   -   Anthropogenic biomes are regions of the planet that have been transformed by human activity. This concept helps biogeographers understand how human actions alter natural landscapes and influence species distributions and ecosystem functions. 

Anthropogenic Disturbance   -   Biogeography, Human Impact   -   Anthropogenic disturbance includes human activities that alter natural habitats, such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution. These disturbances can significantly impact species distribution and ecosystem functions. 

Antipodean Fauna   -   Biogeography, Regional Faunas   -   Antipodean fauna includes the unique animal species found in regions such as Australia and New Zealand. These species exhibit distinct evolutionary traits due to their long-term geographical isolation. 

Apomixis   -   Biogeography, Reproductive Strategies   -   Apomixis is a form of asexual reproduction in plants where seeds are produced without fertilization. This strategy allows for the rapid spread of genetically identical individuals, influencing plant distribution and population dynamics. 

Aquatic Biomes   -   Biogeography, Ecosystem Types   -   Aquatic biomes encompass all water-based environments, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. These biomes are characterized by their distinct physical and biological properties, which influence species composition and ecological interactions. 

Aquatic Ecosystems   -   Biogeography, Ecosystem Types   -   Aquatic ecosystems include all water-based environments, such as oceans, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. These ecosystems are characterized by unique physical, chemical, and biological properties that influence species composition and ecological interactions. 

Aquatic Migration   -   Biogeography, Movement Patterns   -   Aquatic migration involves the regular, often seasonal, movement of aquatic species between different habitats. This behavior is crucial for breeding, feeding, and avoiding adverse environmental conditions, influencing species distribution and population dynamics. 

Aquifer   -   Biogeography, Hydrological Features   -   An aquifer is an underground layer of water-bearing rock that supplies groundwater to wells and springs. The availability and quality of groundwater in aquifers influence the distribution of plant and animal species, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. 

Arboreal Species   -   Biogeography, Habitat Types   -   Arboreal species are organisms that live primarily in trees. These species have specific adaptations for life in the forest canopy, influencing their distribution and ecological roles within forest ecosystems. 

Archipelagic Species   -   Biogeography, Island Species   -   Archipelagic species are those that are native to or primarily found in archipelagos. These species often exhibit unique adaptations and evolutionary traits due to their isolation and the distinct environmental conditions of islands. 

Archipelago   -   Biogeography, Island Biogeography   -   An archipelago is a group of islands closely scattered in a body of water. Studying archipelagos helps biogeographers understand patterns of species colonization, isolation, and speciation. 

Archipelago Effect   -   Biogeography, Island Biogeography   -   The archipelago effect refers to the unique ecological and evolutionary processes that occur in island groups. This effect includes high rates of endemism, speciation, and adaptive radiation, making archipelagos important models for studying biodiversity. 

Arctic Biome   -   Biogeography, Climate Zones   -   The Arctic biome is characterized by extreme cold, ice-covered landscapes, and permafrost. This biome supports a unique set of species adapted to harsh conditions, providing insights into ecological and evolutionary processes in cold environments. 

Arctic Tundra   -   Biogeography, Ecosystem Types   -   The Arctic tundra is a cold, treeless biome found in the Arctic Circle, characterized by permafrost and a short growing season. This biome supports specialized plant and animal species adapted to extreme cold and limited resources. 

Area Of Endemism   -   Biogeography, Species Distribution   -   An area of endemism is a geographic region where species with limited ranges are concentrated. Studying these areas helps biogeographers understand the factors driving species diversification and the conservation of unique biotas. 

Arid Regions   -   Biogeography, Climate Zones   -   Arid regions are areas with extremely low precipitation, creating deserts and drylands. The unique climatic conditions of arid regions shape the adaptation and distribution of flora and fauna adapted to such environments. 

Autochory   -   Biogeography, Dispersal Mechanisms   -   Autochory is the self-dispersal of seeds by plants, often through mechanisms like explosive dehiscence or gravity. This dispersal strategy affects plant distribution and community structure in various habitats. 

Autochthonous Species   -   Biogeography, Species Origins   -   Autochthonous species are those that originated and evolved in the area where they are currently found. This concept contrasts with allochthonous species, which have migrated from other regions, and is important in understanding local biodiversity. 

Avifauna   -   Biogeography, Regional Faunas   -   Avifauna refers to the bird species of a particular region, habitat, or geological period. Studying avifauna helps biogeographers understand patterns of species richness, migration, and ecological roles of birds in different environments. 

Azonal Soils   -   Biogeography, Soil Types   -   Azonal soils are soils that do not exhibit the typical horizon development seen in zonal soils. They are often found in regions with unique conditions such as river valleys, floodplains, and steep slopes, affecting local vegetation and species distribution. 

B

Barrier Islands   -   Biogeography, Coastal Features   -   Barrier islands are narrow, elongated landforms that lie parallel to the mainland coast. They play a crucial role in protecting coastal ecosystems from storm surges and erosion while providing unique habitats for various species. 

Basal Area   -   Biogeography, Forest Ecology   -   Basal area is a measure of the cross-sectional area of tree trunks in a forest, typically expressed per unit area. It is used to assess forest density, productivity, and ecological health. 

Baseline Condition   -   Biogeography, Environmental Assessment   -   Baseline condition describes the natural state of an ecosystem before significant human disturbance. Establishing baseline conditions is essential for evaluating environmental changes and the impact of human activities on ecosystems. 

Bathyal Zone   -   Biogeography, Marine Environments   -   The bathyal zone is the part of the ocean between the continental shelf and the abyssal zone, typically ranging from 200 to 2000 meters in depth. It is characterized by low light and cold temperatures, supporting specialized marine life. 

Bathymetric Distribution   -   Biogeography, Marine Environments   -   Bathymetric distribution refers to the distribution of marine organisms at different depths in the ocean. This distribution is influenced by factors such as light, pressure, temperature, and nutrient availability. 

Benthic Fauna   -   Biogeography, Marine Biodiversity   -   Benthic fauna are the animals that live on or in the seabed. These organisms, including worms, crustaceans, and mollusks, play crucial roles in marine ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and sediment stability. 

Benthic Flora   -   Biogeography, Aquatic Plants   -   Benthic flora are the plants