Ecological System

An ecological system, also known as an ecosystem, is a community of living organisms, along with the non-living components of their environment, interacting as a system. This includes plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as the soil, water, and air within the ecosystem. Ecological systems can range in size from small ponds to the entire planet, and they can be terrestrial or aquatic.

Components of Ecological Systems:

• Abiotic factors: Non-living components such as water, sunlight, temperature, soil, and air.
• Biotic factors: Living components including plants, animals, and microorganisms.
• Producers: Organisms that can create their own food through photosynthesis, such as plants.
• Consumers: Organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms, such as animals.
• Decomposers: Organisms that break down dead organisms and organic matter, returning nutrients to the environment.

Interactions within Ecological Systems:

Within an ecological system, organisms interact with each other and with the abiotic components. These interactions can include predation, competition for resources, symbiotic relationships, and the cycling of nutrients through the ecosystem.

Study Guide:

1. Define an ecological system and list its components.
2. Explain the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers within an ecological system.
3. Describe the interactions that occur within an ecological system, including predation, competition, and symbiosis.
4. Compare and contrast terrestrial and aquatic ecological systems.
5. Discuss the impact of human activities on ecological systems and potential conservation efforts.