Question

Is the original climax community in a ecosystem more likely to be restored after a natural disturbance or a human caused disturbance?

Answer 1

The return to a climax community in an ecosystem is influenced by the type of disturbance, with natural disturbances typically allowing for a more straightforward recovery. Human-caused disturbances tend to complicate restoration due to alterations in environmental variables and the introduction of non-native elements.

Step-by-step explanation:

When addressing whether an original climax community in an ecosystem is more likely to be restored after a natural disturbance or a human-caused disturbance, it is important to consider the mechanisms of ecological succession and the resilience of natural systems.

Succession, the process by which the structure of a biological community evolves, often leads to a climax community. After natural events like forest fires caused by lightning, ecosystems begin the recovery process with pioneer species and then progress to intermediate species over the years. Eventually, they may reach a climax community characteristic of the area's climate and geology. This state is dynamic but can remain stable until disrupted by another disturbance.

Human-caused disturbances such as deforestation, pollution, and agriculture can also disrupt ecosystems. However, recovery is generally more complex due to potential alterations in soil composition, the introduction of non-native species, or more profound changes. Despite this complexity, evidence has shown that ecosystems can recover even after significant human impacts, although it might take longer and potentially leave lasting changes.

Answer 2

Ecosystems disturbed by a nature will be eventually restored unless it's a really big cataclysm, but most of the ecosystems are now a human caused disturbance. For example there are plenty of species which are already extinct or nearly extinct because of hunting industry.