Children: Biogeography
The "taxon cycle" is a concept used in biogeography and ecology to describe the natural evolutionary and geographical progression of certain species or taxa over time. It outlines how populations of species move through a predictable series of stages as they adapt to changing environments, often in response to factors such as habitat availability, climate change, or other ecological pressures.
The Theory of Island Biogeography is a key ecological theory that was developed by ecologists Robert MacArthur and Edward O. Wilson in the 1960s. It seeks to explain the factors that influence the number and diversity of species on islands and other isolated habitats. The theory is primarily concerned with two main processes: immigration (the arrival of new species) and extinction (the loss of species).
Tiger bush is a type of vegetative pattern found in arid and semi-arid regions, characterized by alternating bands of grassland and shrubland or tree cover. This unique ecological formation typically occurs in areas where there is a gradient of water availability, leading to the distinct spatial arrangement of vegetation. The name "tiger bush" comes from the resemblance of the pattern to the stripes of a tiger, with the bands of grasses and shrubs creating a striped appearance across the landscape.
The Tinguiririca fauna refers to a unique assemblage of fossilized animals discovered in the Tinguiririca River area of central Chile, primarily dating from the late Miocene to early Pliocene epochs, approximately 7 million to 2 million years ago. This fossil site is significant as it provides insights into the paleoecology of South America during this period.
Tussock grass refers to a group of grass species characterized by clumps or tufts, typically found in various ecosystems, especially in temperate regions. Some common examples include: 1. **Poa tussock** - This is native to New Zealand and is often found in alpine and subalpine environments. 2. **Danthonia** - This is a genus of grasses commonly found in Australia and New Zealand, particularly in open grasslands.
The Wallace Line is a biogeographical boundary that delineates the distinct flora and fauna of the islands of Southeast Asia. It was proposed by the British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace in the 19th century and runs between the islands of Bali and Lombok, as well as between Borneo and Sulawesi, marking the transition between the Asian and Australian ecozones.
Wallacea is a biogeographical region that encompasses a group of islands located between the continents of Asia and Australia, specifically in the eastern part of Indonesia. It is named after the British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, who conducted important research in the region in the 19th century. Wallacea is characterized by its unique biodiversity and is known for having a mix of species that are typically found in either Asia or Australia, which contributes to its distinct ecological characteristics.
The term "Western Palaearctic" refers to a biogeographical region that encompasses parts of Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia. It is one of the regions defined within the larger Palaearctic realm, which is one of the eight biogeographical realms of the world. The Western Palaearctic includes a diverse range of habitats, from Mediterranean climates to temperate forests and tundra.
Windwatt is a term that can refer to a specific product or brand related to wind energy, typically involving technology designed for wind power generation. It may include wind turbines, energy management systems, or other renewable energy solutions focused on harnessing wind energy. However, without further context, it’s difficult to provide a precise definition, as terms like "Windwatt" can have varying meanings depending on the specific industry or application.
The World Geographical Scheme for Recording Plant Distributions (WGSRPD) is a systematic framework developed to facilitate the recording and reporting of plant distributions around the globe. Established by the International Working Group on Taxonomic Databases for Plant Sciences (TDP), the scheme provides a standardized method for categorizing geographical areas based on their flora.
The World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) is an authoritative and comprehensive database that aims to provide valid scientific names and classification information for marine organisms. It was established to facilitate the study of marine biodiversity by offering a reliable resource for researchers, policymakers, and educators interested in marine species. Key features of WoRMS include: 1. **Taxonomic Information**: WoRMS provides taxonomic details for marine species, including synonyms, geographic distribution, and ecological information.
Zoogeography is a branch of biogeography that deals with the study of the geographical distribution of animal species and populations across the planet. It involves understanding how historical, ecological, and environmental factors influence the presence and diversity of animal life in different regions. Key areas of focus in zoogeography include: 1. **Species Distribution**: Investigating where different animal species are found and how their distributions are influenced by factors such as climate, geography, and habitat availability.