Local factors in ecological development and change (agriculture, urban change, introduction of new species)
Human activities — farming, urban development, and introducing non-native species — can alter or completely redirect how a local ecosystem develops. These local pressures often reduce biodiversity, the variety of species living in an area.
Real World
The introduction of Rhododendron ponticum to UK heathlands and woodlands, originally planted as ornamental ground cover on estates like those in the New Forest, now smothers native heather and blocks light, dramatically reducing biodiversity.
Exam Focus
For 'assess' questions, structure your answer by naming the factor, explaining the ecological mechanism, and judging its relative severity.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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