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The Ten Principles of Ecological Restoration... PRINCIPLE FIVE Re-establish ecological linkages, reconnecting the threads in the web of life An ecosystem is a community of interdependent species, all of which are necessary for the health and proper functioning of the system. When ecosystems become degraded and fragmented, they become less self sustaining and vulnerable to catastrophic events such as tornadoes and disease. The dispersal of plants and animals is cut off. Species that require large areas are extirpated and a habitat is unable to respond with an influx of replacement species. Urban natural habitats, such as parks, have much in common with islands. Only a few wide ranging generalist species can make the voyage across inhospitable spaces to re-colonize. Non-native species often fill this role in degraded urban habitats. Restoring corridors for the exchange of species and long term biological sustainability is crucial for a self-maintaining system.
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