Diversity, Stability, and Equilibrium Equilibrium Hypothesis Local populations fluctuate very little from equilibrium values. Determined by competition, predation, parasitism Disturbances are damped Diversity determined by available niches. If local patches are out of phase, then species will persist in the environment. The most diverse communities lie in between. Coral reefs are more diverse where disturbed by hurricanes.
Tropical rainforests are more diverse where disturbed by storms.
The richest plant communities in the U.S. occur on bombing ranges. Reasons to Preserve Diversity Moral responsibility Potential to gain benefits in the form of foods, medicines, industrial products. Essential ecosystem services. Maintenance of correct gaseous composition in atmosphere. Maintenance of temp.