page_title: Biotic homogenization
section_title: Pressures leading to homogenization
hierarchical_section_title: Biotic homogenization / Overview / Pressures leading to homogenization
caption_attribution_description: English: A panorama of Lower Manhattan as viewed from the Staten Island Ferry. This is a composite of 12 segments stitched together. It was taken by myself with a Canon 5D and 70-200mm f/2.8L lens at 200mm and f/8. Français&#160;: Vue panoramique du quartier de Lower Manhattan, à New-York (USA), prise depuis la navette de Staten Island. Image panoramique issue de l'assemblage de 12 photos prises avec un Canon 5D et un objectif 70-200mm f/2.8L réglé sur 200mm et f/8.
context_page_description: Biotic homogenization is the process by which two or more spatially distributed ecological communities become increasingly similar over time. This process may be genetic, taxonomic, or functional, and it leads to a loss of beta diversity. While the term is sometimes used interchangeably with "taxonomic homogenization", "functional homogenization", and "genetic homogenization", biotic homogenization is actually an overarching concept that encompasses the other three. This phenomenon stems primarily from two sources: extinctions of native and invasions of nonnative species. While this process pre-dates human civilization, as evidenced by the fossil record, and still occurs due to natural impacts, it has recently been accelerated due anthropogenic pressures. Biotic homogenization has become recognized as a significant component of the biodiversity crisis, and as such has become of increasing importance to conservation ecologists.
context_section_description: Homogenization can result from either anthropomorphic or natural pressures. Many cases of species introductions are the result of either unintentional or intentional introduction of species by humans, be it for the pet trade, recreation, or agriculture. Urbanization can also have profound impacts on biota, leading to changes in assemblages. Natural selection and other evolutionary forces that lead to extinction can also potentially lead to homogenization. Sometimes, previously isolated populations can become exposed to each other naturally. Species interactions can also cause local extinctions, be the relationship predatory or pathogenic.
caption: Urbanization changes species conformation in a habitat, and it can  be a driving force in homogenization.
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