õhutundlikud
õhutundlikud refers to a group of organisms that are sensitive to changes in air quality. This sensitivity can manifest in various ways, including altered growth patterns, reduced reproduction, or even mortality. These organisms often serve as bioindicators, meaning their presence or absence, or their condition, can signal the health of an environment. For example, certain mosses and lichens are highly susceptible to sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, common air pollutants. Their decline in an area can indicate elevated levels of these pollutants. Similarly, some insects and aquatic invertebrates have specific air quality requirements, and their populations can be negatively impacted by atmospheric deposition of pollutants. Understanding õhutundlikud is crucial for environmental monitoring and for developing strategies to mitigate air pollution. Research into these organisms helps scientists assess the ecological risks associated with industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and other sources of airborne contaminants. The study of õhutundlikud contributes to a broader understanding of ecosystem resilience and the interconnectedness of atmospheric conditions and biological life.