ecotone

/ˈikoʊˌtoʊn/
noun
  1. A transition area between two different ecosystems, such as where a forest meets a grassland.
    • The ecotone between the forest and the meadow is home to many unique plants.
    • Scientists study the ecotone to see how species adapt to changing environments.
    • Birds often nest in the ecotone because it offers both shelter and open space for hunting.
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