Question

You have just won the ecological lottery and have unlimited funds to set up an ecological reserve on an island. If you want to maximize the species richness on the island, which of the following islands should you purchase?

a. A large homogeneous island far from shore
b. A large heterogeneous island relatively close to shore
c. A large heterogeneous island far from shore
d. A small heterogeneous island far from shore
e. A small homogeneous island relatively close to shore

Answer 1

To maximize species richness, a large heterogeneous island close to shore would be the ideal choice due to its larger area, habitat diversity, and proximity to the mainland which promotes species migration.

Step-by-step explanation:

If you want to maximize species richness on an island, you should aim to purchase a large heterogeneous island relatively close to shore. According to island biogeography theory developed by Robert H. MacArthur and Edward O. Wilson, larger islands offer more niches and can support larger populations of species, thereby reducing the likelihood of extinction. Moreover, a heterogeneous island provides a variety of habitats that support biodiversity. Being close to the mainland facilitates migration, increasing the chances that more species will colonize the island and enhance its species richness.