| While all ecosystems are distinct in their particular combination
of components, some specialized component land cover types can be
dramatically different from their surroundings. Examples include
a wetland, an alpine meadow, or a unique forest.
Ecoregions vary in their make-up and complexity. Some, such as those in the Prairies, are relatively uniform in their composition, structure and processes. Others, such as those in mountainous areas, contain extreme variations in relief, soils, climate, vegetation and species. One measure of diversity at a broad scale is to compare the number of land cover types between ecoregions. The land cover diversity map shows a variety of major cover types and gives an indication of the level of diversity within a particular ecosystem.
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