siirtymäekosysteemit

Siirtymäekosysteemit, also known as transition ecosystems, are ecological areas that exist between two distinct, more stable ecosystems. They represent a gradient or zone where characteristics of both bordering environments gradually blend and intermingle. These transitional areas are often dynamic and can be influenced by the conditions of both adjacent ecosystems, as well as their own unique environmental factors. Examples include ecotones between forests and grasslands, or between freshwater and marine environments.

The species composition and abundance in a siirtymäekosysteemi are typically distinct from those found in the core areas of the neighboring ecosystems. Many species may thrive in these transitional zones due to the availability of resources or habitat conditions that are not found in the more uniform environments. Conversely, some species from the core ecosystems may be unable to survive in the transitional zone due to altered conditions. This can lead to high biodiversity in these areas, as they support a unique mix of organisms.

Siirtymäekosysteemit play a crucial role in landscape connectivity and ecological processes. They can facilitate the movement of organisms between larger habitats, acting as corridors for migration and gene flow. The health and stability of these transition zones are important for the overall resilience of the landscape. Human activities, such as land-use change and habitat fragmentation, can significantly impact siirtymäekosysteemit, often leading to their degradation or loss, which can have cascading effects on the surrounding ecosystems.