ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Ecotone

An ecotone is like a bridge between two different habitats, such as a forest and a grassland. It's the area where the two different habitats meet, and it's special because it has a combination of characteristics from both habitats. It's often very rich in plants and animals, because creatures from both habitats come together in one place. The ecotone is often an important part of an ecosystem because it helps to keep the different habitats separate.