Homeostasis means
Last updated Jun 23, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option A —
A tendency of an ecosystem to resist change and to remain in a state of equilibrium
Homeostasis refers to the self-regulating process by which biological systems (including individual organisms and entire ecosystems) maintain stability while adjusting to changing external conditions.Key Concepts of Ecosystem Homeostasis:
Dynamic Equilibrium: It is not a static state; rather, the system constantly adjusts its internal processes to stay within a healthy range.
Feedback Loops: Ecosystems use "negative feedback" to counter disturbances. For example, if a certain prey population increases, the predator population will eventually increase to bring the prey numbers back down to a stable level.
Resilience vs. Resistance: While homeostasis allows a system to resist minor changes, extreme environmental shifts (like severe pollution or habitat destruction) can overwhelm this balance, leading to ecosystem collapse.
Why the other options are incorrect:
B: No ecosystem can withstand all kinds of changes; catastrophic events (like a major volcanic eruption or total deforestation) can permanently alter or destroy them.
C: Homeostasis is about maintaining health and balance, not "converting into changes of pollution."
D: Ecosystems are highly responsive to change; homeostasis is the result of that response being used to restore balance.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
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