Mod 3 Yellodig Witte
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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University *
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155
Subject
Geography
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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1
Uploaded by GeneralTeam14788
Question:
Is the intermediate disturbance hypothesis a valid theory to determine
patterns of diversity and species co-existance?
Opinion:
Yes.
Reasoning:
1.
Hurricanes.
The intermediate disturbance hypothesis is a valid theory to
determine patterns of diversity and species co-existance. For example,
hurricanes, known mainly for their destructive nature, are actually capable of
restoring order to reef zones. According to a study by Caroline Rogers titled
"Hurricanes and coral reefs: the intermediate disturbance hypothesis revisited", it
states that research has shown hurricanes to positively impact shallow reef
zones by clearing out foliaceous coral species (Rogers, 1993).
2.
Wildfires.
Wildfires are anther example supporting why the intermediate
disturbance hypothesis is a valid theory to determine patterns of diversity and
species co-existance. Wildfires, although typically regarded as dangerous
phenomena, can actually benefit certain ecosystems when under control.
According to a journal by Robert Keane and Eva Karau titled "Evaluating the
ecological benefits of wildfire by integrating fire into ecosystem simulation
models", it states that wildfires are capable of reducing hazardous fuels and
restore fire dominated ecosystems (Keane & Karau, 2010).
3.
Flooding.
Flooding is a final example of how the intermediate disturbance
hypothesis is a valid theory to determine patterns of diversity and species co-
existance. Flooding, in a controlled manner, is actually capable of protecting land
and living organisms. According to an article by Associated Programme on Flood
Management titled "What are the beneficial impacts of floods", it states that
surface runoffs produced by flooding can help wash down toxic pollutants and
contaminants along with pesticides and fertilizers (Associated Programme on
Flood Management, 2013).
Works Cited
Rogers, C. S. (n.d.). Hurricanes and coral reefs: The intermediate disturbance
hypothesis revisited - coral reefs. SpringerLink.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00334471
Robert E. Keane, Finney, M. A., Keane, R. E., Lehmkuhl, J. F., Agee, J. K., Barrett, T.
M., Bevins, C. D., Black, A., Cary, G. J., Calkin, D., Daubenmire, R., Hann, W. J., Karau,
E. C., & Lentile, L. B. (2010, February 12). Evaluating the ecological benefits of
wildfire by integrating fire and ecosystem simulation models. Ecological Modelling.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304380010000475
What are the beneficial impacts of floods?. Associated Programme on Flood
Management. (2013, May 19). https://www.floodmanagement.info/what-are-the-
beneficial-impacts-of-floods/#:~:text=Surface%20runoff%20and%20flooding
%20can,use%20of%20pesticides%20and%20fertilizers
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