A large hurricane destroys a coastal habitat. What type of disruptive event does this describe? Episodic Extinctive Periodic Random

In this scenario, a large hurricane significantly impacts a coastal habitat, resulting in destruction and disruption of the ecosystem. The type of disruptive event this describes can be classified as:

1. Episodic: This term refers to events that occur irregularly but can have significant impacts when they do happen. Hurricanes, being infrequent but powerful, fit this description.

2. Extinctive: This type implies that the event leads to extinction, which could happen if the hurricane wipes out a species or significantly reduces its population.

3. Periodic: This refers to events that occur at regular intervals. Hurricanes do not follow a set schedule, as they can vary year to year.

4. Random: This suggests an event that occurs without a predictable pattern. While hurricanes can occur unexpectedly, they generally follow seasonal patterns.

Given these definitions, the best choice that aligns with the destruction caused by hurricanes is Episodic. The reason is that hurricanes are not regular occurrences; they happen from time to time with varying intensity and effects on habitats.