MacArthur and Wilson

MacArthur and Wilson developed the Theory of Island Biogeography, which explains how the number of species on an island is balanced by two processes: immigration (new species arriving) and extinction (species disappearing). They proposed that larger islands tend to host more species because they offer more resources and habitats, reducing extinction risk. Conversely, islands closer to the mainland are easier for species to reach, increasing immigration rates. The equilibrium point where species arriving and disappearing balance out depends on island size and proximity to the mainland. This theory helps explain patterns of biodiversity on islands and isolated habitats globally.