Factors of Environmental Influence

• Physical Factors: These include climate, temperature, precipitation, and altitude. They can have a direct impact on the physiology and behavior of organisms.
• Biological Factors: The presence and interactions of other living organisms in an environment can greatly influence the survival and behavior of a particular species.
• Chemical Factors: The composition of the soil, water, and air can affect the growth and development of organisms. Pollution and contaminants can also have detrimental effects.
• Geological Factors: The type of terrain and geologic features of an area can shape the habitat available to organisms, influencing their distribution and abundance.

Examples of Environmental Influence

One example of environmental influence is the effect of temperature on the distribution of plant species. Certain plants thrive in hot, arid environments, while others prefer cooler, more temperate climates. This can be attributed to the physiological adaptations of the plants to specific temperature ranges.

Another example is the impact of human activity on the environment. Deforestation, pollution, and urbanization can drastically alter ecosystems, leading to the decline of certain species and the proliferation of others that are better adapted to the changed conditions.

Study Tips

• Understand the interconnectedness of environmental factors and how they shape ecosystems.
• Review case studies of specific environmental influences on different organisms and ecosystems.
• Explore the concept of ecological succession and how environmental influence plays a role in shaping the development of ecosystems over time.
• Consider the implications of human-induced environmental changes and their long-term effects on the natural world.