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== Ecotone ==
'''Ecotone''' (/ˈiːkəˌtoʊn/ or /ˈɛkəˌtoʊn/) is a term derived from the combination of two Greek words, 'oikos' meaning house, and 'tonos' meaning tension. It is a term used in [[ecology]] and [[environmental science]] to describe a transition area between two [[biomes]], where two communities meet and integrate. 

=== Definition ===
An ecotone may appear on the landscape as a gradual blending of the two communities across a broad area, or it may manifest itself as a sharp boundary line. The word ecotone was coined from a combination of eco(logy) plus -tone, from the Greek tonos or tension – in other words, a place where ecologies are in tension.

=== Characteristics ===
Ecotones are characterized by a greater variety of species than are found in either flanking communities, because conditions are suitable for species from both sides of the bordering communities and for other species that are adapted to the conditions of the transition zone itself. This is known as the [[Edge effect]].

=== Types of Ecotones ===
There are several types of ecotones, each with their own unique characteristics and species. These include the [[Forest]]-[[Grassland]] ecotone, the [[Mangrove]]-[[Estuary]] ecotone, and the [[Tundra]]-[[Taiga]] ecotone.

=== Importance ===
Ecotones are of particular importance for the conservation of biodiversity. They provide habitats for a wide range of species, and their dynamic nature allows for the survival of species that may be threatened in more stable environments.

=== See Also ===
* [[Edge effect]]
* [[Ecology]]
* [[Biome]]
* [[Biodiversity]]

[[Category:Ecology]]
[[Category:Environmental science]]
[[Category:Conservation biology]]
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