What does the "edge effect" refer to in ecology?

The "edge effect" refers to the phenomenon of increased biodiversity and ecological activity at the boundaries, or edges, between two different habitat types. This occurs because the edge environment often has a combination of characteristics from both adjacent habitats, creating a unique ecological niche that can support a wider variety of species. For instance, where a forest meets a grassland, the varied light conditions, moisture levels, and food resources contribute to the presence of species from both ecosystems, as well as some that thrive particularly well at the edge.

Many organisms, such as certain birds, mammals, and insects, may prefer these edge environments for foraging, breeding, and shelter because of the availability of diverse resources. This aspect of increased biodiversity is key to the management and conservation of habitats, especially in fragmented landscapes. The concept highlights the importance of habitat interfaces in ecological studies and conservation efforts, as they can serve as hotspots for species richness and ecological interactions.