Ecoregion
Ecoregion
Ecoregion (pronunciation: /ˈiːkoʊˌriːdʒən/), also known as an ecological region, is a term used in Environmental Science and Ecology to describe a geographically distinct area with similar environmental conditions, species, and ecosystems.
Etymology
The term "ecoregion" is derived from the Greek words "oikos" meaning "house" and "region" from the Latin "regio" meaning "direction, boundary". It was first used in the late 20th century to describe areas of similar ecological characteristics.
Definition
An ecoregion is defined by its biogeographical features, including its climate, soil, plants, animals, and other ecological factors. These regions are often used for conservation planning and management, as they provide a framework for understanding the distribution and diversity of life on Earth.
Related Terms
- Biome: A larger classification of ecological community, such as a forest, desert, or grassland.
- Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
- Ecosystem: A community of living organisms and their physical environment, interacting as a system.
- Habitat: The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.
Classification
Ecoregions are classified based on their predominant vegetation type, climate, and geographical features. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has identified over 800 terrestrial ecoregions, which are grouped into 14 major habitat types, including tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, temperate broadleaf and mixed forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands.
Importance
Ecoregions are important for understanding the biodiversity and ecological processes of a region. They provide a framework for conservation planning, helping to identify areas of high biodiversity and ecological value. They also help in understanding the impacts of human activities on ecosystems and biodiversity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ecoregion
- Wikipedia's article - Ecoregion
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