Chapter 1 Introduction Glossary
Appendix 1-7
joint jurisdiction are described in North Carolina’s Administrative Code (15A NCAC 03Q.0201 and 03Q.0202).
Colonial . Animals that live together in groups.
Commensal . Different organisms living in close association with each other; one is benefited and the other is neither benefited nor harmed; in close association with humans.
Critical Habitat . Habitats required for an organism to survive. Designated critical habitat is defined by the USFWS for species listed for protection under the Endangered Species Act. This designated critical habitat includes specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species with the physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species and which may require special management considerations or protection. The Secretary of the Interior may also determine specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing as being essential for the conservation of the species.
D
Deforestation . Removal of trees from an area without adequate replanting.
Detritus . Fragments of organic material.
Disjunct . A group or population separate from other parts of a group or population.
Dispersal . Movements that occur within the lifetime of the individual, as, for example, when it leaves its natal site.
Disperse . To move away from the place of birth or from centers of population density.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) . The amount of oxygen dissolved in a body of water; measured as a percent of saturation. It is used as an indication of the degree of health of the water and its ability to support a balanced aquatic ecosystem. If more oxygen is consumed than is produced, dissolved oxygen levels decline. DO levels vary with water temperature and with altitude; they fluctuate seasonally and over a 24-hour period. Cold water holds more oxygen than warm water and water holds less oxygen at higher altitudes. Aquatic animals are vulnerable to lowered DO levels.
Distend . To push out.
Diurnal . Active during the daytime.
Dormant . Sleeping or otherwise inactive with some bodily processes such as heart rate and breathing slowed down.
2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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