What is an Ecosystem?

An ecosystem is a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment. It includes both living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components.

Components of an Ecosystem

Living components (biotic factors) of an ecosystem include plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. Non-living components (abiotic factors) include sunlight, water, soil, temperature, and air.

Types of Ecosystems

Ecosystems can be terrestrial (land-based) or aquatic (water-based). Terrestrial ecosystems include forests, grasslands, and deserts, while aquatic ecosystems include freshwater (lakes, rivers) and marine (oceans, coral reefs) ecosystems.

Food Chains and Food Webs

A food chain is a series of organisms in which each eats or decomposes the preceding one, showing how energy and nutrients are passed on. A food web is a more complex, interconnected system of food chains within an ecosystem.

Energy Flow in Ecosystems

Energy enters an ecosystem through sunlight and is converted into chemical energy by plants through the process of photosynthesis. This energy then flows through the ecosystem as organisms consume each other.

Ecological Succession

Ecological succession is the process by which an ecosystem changes over time. It can be primary succession (starting from bare rock) or secondary succession (rebuilding after a disturbance).

Human Impact on Ecosystems

Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and overfishing can disrupt and even destroy ecosystems, leading to loss of biodiversity and other environmental problems.

Ecosystem Services

Ecosystems provide essential services such as clean water, air purification, soil formation, and nutrient cycling, which are vital for human well-being.

Conservation of Ecosystems

Conserving ecosystems is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of resources. Conservation efforts include establishing protected areas and sustainable resource management.

[Ecosystem] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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• Energy and ecosystemsScience • Fifth Grade