How does bacterial diversity affect ecosystem resilience?

Bacterial diversity plays a crucial role in enhancing ecosystem stability and health, which is why this choice is the correct answer. Diverse bacterial populations contribute to various ecological functions, such as nutrient cycling, decomposition, and energy flow, enabling ecosystems to respond adaptively to disturbances, be they natural or anthropogenic. When multiple bacterial species coexist, they can utilize different resources and niches, which helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

Furthermore, diversity increases redundancy within the ecosystem. If one species is affected by a disease or environmental change, other species can compensate for its loss, ensuring that essential processes, such as the breakdown of organic materials and nutrient recycling, continue unabated. This redundancy acts as a buffer, promoting resilience.

Conversely, a lack of diversity or the dominance of a few species can lead to vulnerability within the ecosystem. In such cases, the loss of those dominant species can have detrimental effects on overall ecosystem function and stability. Thus, high bacterial diversity supports robust interactions and relationships among organisms, fostering a resilient ecosystem capable of withstanding and recovering from disturbances.