Which of the following factors is most important in determining the stability of an ecosystem?

• A. Biodiversity within the ecosystem
• B. The average temperature of the ecosystem
• C. The size of the top predator population
• D. The amount of sunlight received daily

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of ecosystem stability: Ecosystem stability refers to the ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure and function over time despite disturbances. This includes resilience (recovery after disturbance) and resistance (ability to withstand disturbance).
2. Recognize the role of biodiversity: Biodiversity, which includes the variety of species, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity, is a key factor in ecosystem stability. Higher biodiversity often leads to greater resilience and resistance because different species can fulfill various ecological roles, creating redundancy and balance.
3. Evaluate the other factors: While average temperature, top predator population size, and sunlight availability are important for ecosystem functioning, they do not directly contribute to stability in the same way biodiversity does. For example, sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, but it does not inherently stabilize the ecosystem.
4. Consider examples: Ecosystems with high biodiversity, such as tropical rainforests, tend to be more stable because they can adapt to changes and disturbances more effectively. In contrast, ecosystems with low biodiversity, such as monoculture farms, are more vulnerable to disruptions like disease outbreaks.
5. Conclude the reasoning: Based on the understanding of ecosystem stability and the role of biodiversity, it is clear that biodiversity within the ecosystem is the most important factor in determining stability. This is because it ensures functional redundancy and adaptability, which are critical for maintaining balance and recovering from disturbances.