Multiple Choice
In an introduction to terrestrial biomes, which ecosystem generally has the highest biodiversity?
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48. Ecology
Introduction to Terrestrial Biomes
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In an introduction to terrestrial biomes, which terrestrial ecosystem is generally recognized as having the highest biodiversity (species richness)?
A
Tropical rainforest
B
Tundra
C
Temperate grassland (prairie/steppe)
D
Hot desert
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of biodiversity, which refers to the variety and variability of life forms within a given ecosystem, biome, or the entire Earth. Species richness is one measure of biodiversity, indicating the number of different species present.
Review the characteristics of each terrestrial ecosystem option: Tropical rainforest, Tundra, Temperate grassland, and Hot desert, focusing on factors that influence biodiversity such as climate, temperature, precipitation, and habitat complexity.
Recognize that tropical rainforests have warm temperatures year-round, high and consistent rainfall, and complex layered vegetation structures, all of which create numerous niches and support a wide variety of species.
Compare this with tundra, temperate grasslands, and hot deserts, which have more extreme or variable climates, less vegetation complexity, and fewer resources, leading to lower species richness.
Conclude that the tropical rainforest is generally recognized as the terrestrial ecosystem with the highest biodiversity (species richness) due to its favorable environmental conditions and habitat complexity.
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