In
biology, a
disturbance is a temporary change in environmental conditions that causes a pronounced change in an
ecosystem. Disturbances often act quickly and with great effect, sometimes resulting in the removal of large amounts of
biomass. Major ecological disturbances may include
fires,
flooding,
windstorms,
insect outbreaks and
trampling.
Earthquakes, various
types of volcanic eruptions,
tsunami,
firestorms,
impact events,
climate change, and the devastating effects of
human impact on the environment (anthropogenic disturbances) such as
clearcutting,
forest clearing and the introduction of
invasive species can be considered major disturbances. Disturbance forces can have profound immediate effects on ecosystems and can, accordingly, greatly alter the
natural community. Because of these and the impacts on populations, these effects can continue for an extended period of time.