The concept of 'environmental resilience' has gained traction in ecological studies, referring to an ecosystem's capacity to absorb disturbances while maintaining its fundamental structure and functions. Unlike mere resistance, which implies a static defense against change, resilience emphasizes dynamic adaptation. For instance, coral reefs subjected to bleaching events can recover if the underlying stressors, such as rising sea temperatures, are mitigated. However, resilience is not limitless; exceeding critical thresholds can lead to regime shifts, where an ecosystem transitions to an entirely different state, often with reduced biodiversity and ecosystem services. This has profound implications for conservation policy, suggesting that efforts should focus not only on preventing degradation but also on enhancing the adaptive capacity of ecosystems to future shocks.
❓ According to the passage, what is the key difference between resilience and resistance?
A. Resilience involves static defense, while resistance involves dynamic adaptation.
B. Resilience emphasizes recovery and adaptation, while resistance implies an unchanging state.
C. Resistance is limited by critical thresholds, while resilience is not.
D. Resistance leads to regime shifts, while resilience prevents them.
✅ 正确答案
Resilience emphasizes recovery and adaptation, while resistance implies an unchanging state.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first