Ecology
Alternative Stable States
Multiple stable configurations an ecosystem can occupy under the same environmental conditions. The current state depends on history, and transitions between states may require large perturbations.
Biological Context
Lakes can be clear (vegetation-dominated) or turbid (algae-dominated) under identical nutrient conditions. Coral reefs and algae-dominated reefs are alternatives. Once in one state, the system resists shifting to the other. Understanding alternative stable states helps predict ecosystem responses to disturbance.