Absorption Loss 



The initial loss of water from a canal or reservoir by 

 capillary action and percolation. 



Abstract Community 



A generalized category comprising a number of similar 

 units or stands of vegetation and including animal life. 



Abundance 



The total number of individuals of a species in an area, 

 population, or community. The index of relative abundance 

 gives a useful approximation of numbers relative to time or 

 space, e.g., the number of rabbits seen in an hour in a certain 

 place, cf. Density. 



Abyssal 



Refers to the deepest region of the ocean and often used 

 for the zone in lakes below the profundal (q. v.). See 

 Archibenthal. 



Abyssal-benthic (Abyssobenthic) 



The lower part of the abyssal region, below about 3300 

 feet (1000 meters). 



Acarophytium 



The symbiotic relationship of mites and plants. 



Acaulescent 



Refers to a plant with inconspicuous, or seemingly absent, 

 stem above the ground. 



Accelerated Erosion 



Washing away or blowing away of soil material in excess 

 of normal erosion (q. v.), resulting from changes in the 

 vegetation cover or ground conditions. 



Accidental 



A species that occurs with a low degree of Fidelity in a 

 Community-type. 



