övergångszonerna

Övergångszonerna, often translated as "transition zones," refers to areas of ecological change where two or more distinct ecosystems meet. These zones are characterized by a mix of species and environmental conditions from the adjacent ecosystems. They are not sharply defined boundaries but rather gradual gradients where the influence of one ecosystem diminishes and the influence of another increases. Examples include the ecotone between a forest and a grassland, or the transition between freshwater and marine environments.

These areas are often highly dynamic and can be influenced by factors such as climate, topography, and human activities. Overgångszonerna can exhibit unique biodiversity, sometimes hosting a greater variety of species than either of the neighboring ecosystems due to the presence of both resident and edge-adapted species. They can also serve as important corridors for species migration and gene flow. However, they are also frequently vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and other anthropogenic pressures, which can disrupt their ecological integrity and lead to a loss of species. Understanding the dynamics of övergångszonerna is crucial for effective conservation and land management strategies.