Natural disasters can have both immediate and long-term effects on ecosystems. They can result in physical changes to the landscape, such as destruction of habitats, altered water flow patterns, and soil erosion. This can lead to loss of biodiversity, changes in species distribution, and disruption of ecosystem processes. Additionally, natural disasters can also impact the availability of resources for plants and animals, such as food and shelter, which can further influence the ecosystem dynamics. Overall, natural disasters play a significant role in shaping ecosystems and can have both negative and positive effects on the environment.