Ecosystem Vulnerability

A ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of all living organisms with each other and with the physical elements of the environment. The vulnerability of an ecosystem can be determined through the examination of its location, biodiversity, extent and linkages. The vulnerability of the ecosystem is closely linked with the effectiveness of the functioning and the diversity of the ecosystem. The resilience of an ecosystem is also important when looking at the survival of ecosystems. Resilience is a measure of the ability of an ecosystem to adapt to a changing function and structure following an episode of natural or human induced stress.

The biophysical interactions between the hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere and biosphere lead to diverse ecosystems. Through the interaction of the three nonliving spheres, the hydrosphere, lithosphere and atmosphere a variety of different conditions are created for the biosphere. Location of a ecosystem determines the characteristics of th...