can anyone tell me a little about MacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography? I need to answer the question Describe a series of small habitats that exist within 10 to 20 kilometers of your house and which might be subject to MacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island_biogeography
yes i had read this previously, i guess im just not sure how to apply this to the question. any suggestions?
Island biogeography theory describes a habitat that is different than the surrounding habitat.
A city park would be an island habitat.
A farmer's field surrounded by housing developments would be an island habitat.
A small lake is an island habitat.
ok thank you!
You're welcome.
MacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography is a concept that explains how the biodiversity of island communities changes over time. While the theory pertains specifically to natural islands, it can also be applied to smaller habitats, such as patches of land or fragmented ecosystems.
To apply this theory to habitats near your house, consider identifying a series of small ecosystems that exist within a 10 to 20 kilometer radius. These can be parks, forests, wetlands, or any other distinct habitats. Here's how you can describe the series of small habitats using MacArthur and Wilson's theory:
1. Start by identifying the habitats: Research and map out the small habitats near your house. For example, you might have a nearby park, a riverbank, a suburban garden, and a small forest patch. These become your "islands" for the purpose of applying the theory.
2. Note the size and isolation: Measure the size of each habitat and determine the degree of isolation. Larger habitats are expected to support more species, while isolated habitats tend to have lower immigration rates of new species.
3. Evaluate species richness: Survey the different species present in each habitat. Take note of the number and diversity of species. Larger habitats with more resources and niches generally support greater biodiversity.
4. Observe species turnover: Track the turnover or change in species composition across the habitats over time. Smaller and isolated habitats are expected to experience higher turnover rates as a result of limited resources and higher extinction rates.
5. Consider immigration and extinction rates: Assess the flow of species between habitats. Immigrant species colonize new habitats, increasing species richness, while extinction events reduce species numbers. Factors like habitat quality, accessibility, and population size influence these rates.
6. Analyze the equilibrium theory: Apply the equilibrium theory of island biogeography, which suggests a balance between immigration and extinction rates in determining species richness. Smaller, more isolated habitats are predicted to have lower species richness, while larger, less isolated habitats tend to support higher species richness.
By following these steps and considering MacArthur and Wilson's theory, you can describe and analyze the series of small habitats near your house in relation to island biogeography concepts. Remember that this theory focuses on the dynamic nature of ecosystems and the interplay between size, isolation, immigration, and extinction rates.