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Shannon's Index

Definition

Shannon's Index is a measure of biodiversity that takes into account both species richness and evenness within a community. It quantifies the uncertainty associated with predicting the identity of an individual randomly selected from the community.

Analogy

Think of Shannon's Index as trying to guess which color jellybean you will pick blindfolded from a jar filled with different colors. If there are many different colors (high diversity), it becomes more uncertain which color you will choose. But if there are only one or two colors (low diversity), it becomes easier to predict your selection.

Related terms

Simpson's Diversity Index: Another measure used to quantify biodiversity by considering both richness and evenness but with emphasis on dominant species.

Ecological Niche: The specific role and position occupied by an organism within its environment, including its interactions with other organisms and its use of resources.

Keystone Species: A species whose presence is crucial for maintaining the balance and stability of an ecosystem due to its unique ecological roles or functions.