What does biogeography include? Describe its relationship to ecology.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Biogeography is the study of the geographic distribution of species and ecosystems, while ecology is the study of interactions among organisms and their environment. Biogeography is a component of ecology focusing on spatial distributions and patterns of biodiversity. Ecologists use biogeographical data for examining patterns of species richness and endemism, and to pinpoint high conservation priority locations.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Biogeography

Biogeography is the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space and through geological time. Organisms and biological communities often vary in a regular fashion along geographic gradients of latitude, elevation, isolation, and habitat area. Biogeography is a branch of biology that deals with the geographical distribution of plants and animals.
02

Understanding Ecology

Ecology is the scientific analysis and study of interactions among organisms and their environment. It is concerned with the relationships between individuals, groups, species and their environment, how biological systems work and how they interact with their physical environment.
03

Relationship Between Biogeography and Ecology

Both the concepts, biogeography and ecology, are integral parts of the field of biological sciences. Biogeography is, in fact, a component of ecology, focusing specifically on spatial distributions and patterns of biodiversity. Ecologists often rely on biogeographical data to examine patterns of species richness and endemism, and to identify locations that are high conservation priorities. In other words, biogeography reveals where organisms and ecosystems exist, while ecology reveals how they function and interact with the environment.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free