Biome vs AnthroBiome
Biome
The term biome, a derivative of Greek words bios signifying "life" and -oma suggesting "a mass or collection", refers to a large-scale ecological community. Introduced by ecologist Frederic Clements in the early 20th century, it outlines distinct biological communities shaped by climate, soils, and vegetation.
In ecological Sciences nowadays Biomes provide a framework for understanding global patterns of biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics, usually associated with regions showing little to no human influence.
AnthroBiome
The term anthrobiome, on the other hand, is a neologism I coined to highlight the significant imprint of human activities on the Natural World. It blends anthro (human) with -biome (a collection of life), articulating the ecosystems deeply influenced / transformed by anthropogenic interventions.
The anthrobiome captures a paradigm where human actions drastically impact natural systems, actively in shaping these ecosystems for our benefit. It's an acknowledgment of the state of the Earth, now largely subject to human activity. Symbolising the Anthropocene epoch, it reminds us of the reach of our species, spanning from the ocean depths to the stratospheric heights.
As a concept, anthrobiome brings new perspectives to environmental discourse. It offers a framework to understand the intricate relationship between humans and the environment, reshaping our views on our role within Earth's ecosystems.