Which of the following statements about the relationship between species richness and productivity in ecological communities is true?
A) Species richness is usually highest in the most productive communities.
B) Species richness is usually highest in the least productive communities.
C) Species richness is frequently highest at an intermediate level of productivity.
D) Species richness is frequently lowest at an intermediate level of productivity.
E) Species richness is not correlated with productivity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The relationship between species richness and productivity in ecological communities is often described by the hump-shaped pattern known as the productivity-diversity relationship. This pattern shows that species richness is highest at intermediate levels of productivity, rather than at the highest or lowest levels. There are several proposed explanations for this pattern, including the idea that moderate levels of disturbance create a balance between competition and resource availability, allowing for the coexistence of a greater number of species.

Which of the Following Statements About the Relationship Between Species