- A In largely undisturbed, mature climax plant and animal communities over time
- B At intermediate levels of disturbance frequency and intensity (not too high, not too low)
- C Specifically within highly and frequently disturbed environments, generally speaking
- D Mainly at the single maximum possible level of disturbance intensity observed
Correct answer: B. At intermediate levels of disturbance frequency and intensity (not too high, not too low)
Explanation: Intermediate disturbance hypothesis (Connell): moderate disturbances prevent competitive exclusion while maintaining species coexistence. Too little disturbance: competitive exclusion reduces diversity. Too much: most species cannot persist.
Concept context
Levels of biodiversity, species richness patterns, threats (HIPPO), and conservation strategies. Always in NEET.