5.2 Ecosystems and change

Ecosystems are fragile and adapt to change very slowly - they can take thousands of years to reach a sustainable balance or equilibrium

• Slow changes generally cause little harm, allowing ecosystems to adapt.

• Rapid changes, like droughts, can have severe impacts, especially on delicate systems like ponds

• Humans can significantly alter ecosystems, often leading to negative consequences such as biodiversity loss

• Farmingoften alters the land for crops and livestock.

• Through urban development, affecting natural habitats.

• By pollution, which can alter water, soil, and air quality within an ecosystem.

• Many people, including farmers, are trying to keep ecosystems in balance by conserving or reintroducing biodiversity and reducing pesticides and fertilisers.

• Pollution: Runoff from agricultural fields can introduce pesticides, fertilisers, and other pollutants into a pond, leading to eutrophication and harming aquatic life.

• Land Use Changes: Draining ponds for development or agriculture destroys the habitat entirely, leading to a loss of biodiversity.

• Introduction of Invasive Species: When non-native plants or animals are introduced, they can outcompete local species, disrupt food chains, and alter the ecological balance.

• Water Withdrawal: Taking water from ponds for irrigation or other uses can lower water levels, affecting the organisms that rely on that habitat.

• Climate Change: Human-induced climate change can alter the temperature and precipitation patterns, affecting pond ecosystems by changing breeding seasons or drying up water bodies.