When used in the ecological sense homogenization means a decrease in the extent to which communities differ in species composition.

When used in the ecological sense homogenisation means a decrease in the extent to which communities differ in species composition.

Organisms (vertebrates) with a constant and high body temperature, with a high level of energy exchange.

Yard areas surrounding a house for vegetable and fruit production and keeping of domestic animals. In many regions homegardens contain wild species utilized as medicinal plants, timber or other uses.

The Holocene is the current geological epoch. It began after the Pleistocene, approximately 11,650 calendar years before present.

A substance that kills or inhibits the germination, growth and development of plants. Herbicides may be synthetic chemicals, natural chemicals, or biological agents.

Describes built up areas that are hotter than nearby rural areas. Heat islands can affect communities by increasing summertime peak energy demand, air conditioning costs, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, heat-related illness and mortality, and water quality.

A process, phenomenon or human activity that may cause loss of life, injury or other health impacts, property damage, social and economic disruption or environmental degradation. Hazards that this assessment discusses are mostly environmental hazards (chemical, natural and biological hazards), while cognizant that many hazards are socio- natural, in that they are associated with a combination of natural and anthropogenic factors.

The process of bringing something together, and comparing (e.g. models or scenarios) to facilitate compatibility or consistency.

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when colonies of algae grow out of control and produce toxic or harmful effects on people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals and birds. The human illnesses caused by HABs, though rare, can be debilitating or even fatal.