1. Abiotic parts of the environment Wind Sunlight Water Temperature Severe disturbances Soil

2. Biodiversity Three types: Speci es Ecologi cal Geneti c A variety of life – variety of genes in a population or species – variety of species in an area or ecosystem – diversity of ecosystems, communities, and habitats in an area

3. Genetic Biodiversity Helps species adjust to changes in the ecosystem All dogs are the same species!

4. Species Biodiversity Helps ecosystems adjust to disturbances (fire, flood, etc.)

5. Ecological Biodiversity Maintains stability of larger areas and communities

8. Niche The role an organism or species plays in the ecosystem and community (Its “job”) Habitat Behavior Resources

10. Keystone Species – plays a critical role in the functioning of an ecosystem Video