What does ecosystem replacement involve?

Ecosystem replacement refers to the process where the original ecosystem is replaced by a different type of ecosystem, often due to human activities such as urban development, agriculture, or climate change. This could involve transforming a forest into a grassland or wetlands into agricultural land. In such cases, the characteristics, flora, and fauna of the original ecosystem are fundamentally altered, which results in a shift in ecological dynamics.

While restoring original ecosystem functions, reintroducing native species, and improving habitat quality for existing species are all vital conservation practices, they focus on maintaining or enhancing the existing ecosystem rather than replacing it entirely. Therefore, recognizing that ecosystem replacement leads to a complete alteration of ecological structures and processes differentiates this concept from other ecological interventions aimed at stabilization or rejuvenation of the original environment.