A
A marine
ecosystem
Ecosystem in
good health
The
system
fluctuates
between “good
health” (A) and
“eco-stress”
(B) because
of natural
seasonal
changes and/
or human factors
B
The ecosystem’s threshold limit.
Beyond this point,
ecological
functioning will not
be optimal
C
D
The system fluctuates between
“poor health” (C)
and “critical
eco-stress” (D)
due to extreme
natural factors and/or sustained human
influences (including cumulative impacts)
“Lower” level of
ecological
functioning.
Extensive rehabilitation
is needed to restore
the
system back to B or A
Irreversible
damage to
ecosystem
