What is the main environmental factor that can influence zonation?

Zonation in ecology refers to the spatial arrangement of different communities or species in a given area, often influenced by varying environmental factors. The correct answer highlights that multiple environmental factors can contribute to the process of zonation, particularly temperature, soil composition, and moisture levels, all of which can significantly impact the distribution of organisms and ecosystems.

Temperature influences zonation because it affects metabolic rates, reproduction, and survival of species. Different organisms have specific temperature ranges within which they thrive, resulting in various communities at different altitudes or latitudes. For example, aquatic zones may demonstrate temperature gradients that influence the types of species present.

Soil composition affects zonation by providing essential nutrients and determining the physical (e.g., pH, drainage capacity) and chemical properties that support different plant and animal communities. Certain species are adapted to specific soil types, which can further influence the distribution of vegetation and the animals that depend on those plants.

Moisture levels are critical for zonation as well, since different organisms have varying requirements for water. Terrestrial zones, for instance, can have distinct communities that depend on wetland vs. arid conditions, leading to diverse ecosystems like forests, grasslands, or deserts.

Considering these factors, it is evident that all of