2.5.1—Zonation definition
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Objective
- 2.5.1
- Level
- SL
Read Zonation as Change across an Environmental Gradient
Zonation is a spatial change in community composition along a gradient such as elevation, tidal exposure, moisture or salinity.
As conditions change, species occur where their tolerances and interactions allow survival. Describe the gradient first, then identify which abiotic limit changes with position.
Moving up a shore reduces immersion time; algae near the water may be replaced by salt-tolerant plants higher up.
Ordered community change that tracks a measurable spatial gradient.
Zonation is across space; change through years is succession.