Describe a series of small habitats that exist within 10 or 20 kilometers of your house
and which might be subject to MacArthur and Wilson’s theory of island
biogeography.
This site will help you.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island_biogeography
I live in a small city. For years, in a neighborhood less than 10 kilometers from my house, I see black squirrels. However, in my neighborhood, the only squirrels were brown. However, recently that has changed and we now have some black squirrels. There appears to be no difference in habitat between these two populations.
To describe a series of small habitats that might be subject to MacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography within 10 or 20 kilometers of your house, you will need to conduct a survey of the surrounding area. Here's how you can approach it:
1. Identify the general landscape: Start by understanding the overall landscape around your house. Is it urban, suburban, rural, or a mix of these? This will give you a sense of what habitats might be present.
2. Research local habitat types: Learn about the typical habitats found in your region. This could include forests, wetlands, grasslands, lakes, rivers, coastal areas, agricultural fields, etc.
3. Map out the habitats: Using maps or satellite images, create a visual representation of your area and mark the different habitat types you have identified. Consider any natural or artificial barriers that might separate or isolate these habitats.
4. Assess habitat size and isolation: Determine the size of each habitat and the degree of isolation it experiences from other habitats. MacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography suggests that larger habitats typically support more species and have a lower extinction rate, while more isolated habitats may have lower immigration rates.
5. Identify potential species: Research the species that are typically found in each habitat type you identified. Consider plants, animals, and insects that could inhabit these areas and their specific ecological requirements.
6. Evaluate disturbance levels: Assess the level of disturbance or fragmentation each habitat may experience due to human activity, such as urbanization, pollution, or deforestation. Higher levels of disturbance can impact species composition and diversity.
7. Apply MacArthur and Wilson's theory: Analyze the collected information in light of MacArthur and Wilson's theory. Consider factors such as habitat size, isolation, and disturbance levels to predict the species richness and turnover rates that might occur within each habitat.
By following these steps, you can identify and describe a series of small habitats near your house that are subject to MacArthur and Wilson's theory of island biogeography. Remember to consult local field guides, ecological surveys, and experts to ensure accuracy in identifying and understanding the habitats and their species compositions.