How can an increase in biodiversity lead to an increase in ecosystem stability?

• A. Greater biodiversity provides a wider variety of species that can fulfill different ecological roles, making the ecosystem more resilient to disturbances.
• B. More biodiversity leads to a decrease in resource availability, causing ecosystem collapse.
• C. Increased biodiversity reduces the number of available ecological niches, making the ecosystem less stable.
• D. Higher biodiversity always results in increased competition, which destabilizes the ecosystem.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystem types.
2. Recognize the role of species in an ecosystem: Each species in an ecosystem often fulfills specific ecological roles, such as producers, consumers, decomposers, or pollinators. These roles contribute to the overall functioning and stability of the ecosystem.
3. Analyze the relationship between biodiversity and resilience: Greater biodiversity means there are more species available to perform essential ecological functions. If one species is affected by a disturbance, other species can step in to fulfill its role, making the ecosystem more resilient to changes or disruptions.
4. Evaluate the incorrect statements: Increased biodiversity does not lead to ecosystem collapse due to resource depletion, nor does it reduce ecological niches. Instead, it often creates more opportunities for species to coexist and interact positively. Similarly, higher biodiversity does not always result in destabilizing competition; it can promote cooperation and resource sharing.
5. Conclude that greater biodiversity enhances ecosystem stability: By providing a wider variety of species that can adapt to changes and disturbances, biodiversity strengthens the ecosystem's ability to recover and maintain balance over time.