Final answer:
Edge species are adapted to conditions at the boundaries of ecosystems and can handle variable conditions, while interior species require more stable, less disturbed environments typical of the core habitat areas. Forests generally have more species than drier habitats, and species distribution is influenced by their ecological attributes and human landscape modifications. Ecogeographical studies help understand how ecosystems are perceived differently by varying species.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major ecological differences between edge species and interior species relate to how each is adapted to their particular ecological niches and environmental conditions. Edge species are typically adapted to living at the boundaries of different habitats or ecosystem types, where they may experience a blend of conditions from adjacent ecosystems.
These species can often withstand or benefit from the variable conditions of edge habitats, such as increased sunlight and the presence of different plant communities. They often have traits that make them more resistant to disturbance and may take advantage of the resources provided by both adjacent ecosystems.
In contrast, interior species are adapted to conditions within the core of habitats, often requiring more stable and less disturbed environments. They tend to thrive in consistent conditions that are found deeper within an ecosystem, like the central areas of a dense forest.
Ecosystem type plays a significant role in species richness, with forests typically harboring more species compared to drier or colder habitats. For example, South American tropical forests near the Amazon have a higher species density than the drier cerrado habitats.
Ecologically, different species possess various attributes, such as scale of movement, life-history stages, and longevity that influence how a species perceives and survives in a landscape. This is particularly important in contexts where human activities have modified landscapes.
Biogeography and species distribution are closely examined by ecologists, showing that no species are ubiquitous, with some being endemic to specific areas while others are generalists occupying a wide range of habitats. The Venus flytrap is an example of an endemic species, while the raccoon is a generalist species.
Lastly, due to edge effects, species at the edge of fragments may experience different ecological pressures than those in the interior, which can be detrimental or beneficial depending on the species and the management goals.