Master this deck with 21 terms through effective study methods.
Generated from text input
The Florida Panther primarily inhabits hardwood swamps, pinelands, and upland hardwood forests, with a preference for areas that provide dense cover and proximity to water sources.
Bio-indicators are vital for estimating hydropatterns and other natural conditions in ecosystems where direct observation is not feasible. They help scientists infer the health and stability of an ecosystem.
A keystone species is one whose impact on the environment is disproportionately large compared to its abundance. Its presence or absence significantly affects the structure and function of the ecosystem.
Pinus elliotii var. densa, also known as the South Florida slash pine, is most prevalent in tree islands, which are elevated areas of vegetation in the wetlands of South Florida.
Tree islands are island-like patches of forest found in marshes or bays, providing critical habitat for various wildlife species, including birds and other fauna.
The primary threats to Florida Scrubs include habitat loss due to human development, improper fire management practices, and poaching, which disrupt the delicate balance of this ecosystem.
Tree islands serve as valuable rookeries for birds and other wildlife, providing nesting sites and shelter in otherwise open wetland areas.
Fire management is crucial for maintaining the health of ecosystems; if fire is not frequent enough, hardwood trees can grow unchecked, altering the habitat and potentially displacing native species.
Rookery sites are essential for bird nesting and breeding, providing safe locations for birds to raise their young away from predators and disturbances.
Pine rocklands are characterized by a unique ecosystem that includes a variety of plant species, including approximately 400 plant species, with many being endemic and some endangered.
It is illegal to pick up a gopher tortoise because they cannot swim and doing so can lead to drowning. Additionally, they are a protected species under state law, and handling them is restricted to certain circumstances.
Marshes and sloughs play critical roles in water filtration, flood control, and providing habitat for diverse wildlife, including many endangered species.
Human development leads to habitat fragmentation, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of ecological processes, which can have long-term negative effects on wildlife and ecosystem health.
Historical data provide insights into past ecological conditions and changes, helping scientists understand trends, assess current health, and predict future changes in ecosystems.
Improper fire management can lead to overgrowth of certain plant species, increased risk of wildfires, and loss of biodiversity, as fire is a natural process that maintains the health of many ecosystems.
Higher biodiversity generally contributes to greater ecosystem stability, as diverse species can better withstand environmental changes and disturbances, maintaining ecological balance.
Sawgrass marshes are characterized by dense stands of sawgrass, a wetland plant that thrives in shallow water, providing habitat for various wildlife and playing a crucial role in water filtration.
Tree islands enhance biodiversity by providing unique habitats that support various species, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, which may not thrive in surrounding wetland areas.
Endemic plant species are significant because they are unique to Florida and contribute to the state's biodiversity, ecological health, and resilience against environmental changes.
Flooding can lead to habitat destruction, altered water quality, and displacement of species, but it can also rejuvenate ecosystems by redistributing nutrients and creating new habitats.
Measures to protect endangered species include habitat conservation, legal protections, public education, and restoration efforts to rehabilitate degraded ecosystems.