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Notes 5

An ecosystem is a unit of the biosphere where living organisms interact with their physical environment, varying in size from small ponds to large forests. It consists of biotic components, such as producers, consumers, and decomposers, and abiotic components like sunlight, temperature, and water. Energy flows through the ecosystem via photosynthesis, decreasing at each trophic level, and a balance between biotic and abiotic factors is essential for stability and health.

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Notes 5

An ecosystem is a unit of the biosphere where living organisms interact with their physical environment, varying in size from small ponds to large forests. It consists of biotic components, such as producers, consumers, and decomposers, and abiotic components like sunlight, temperature, and water. Energy flows through the ecosystem via photosynthesis, decreasing at each trophic level, and a balance between biotic and abiotic factors is essential for stability and health.

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​Document 5: Introduction to Ecosystems (Ecology)

Title: Structure and Components of an Ecosystem


Introduction: An ecosystem is a structural and functional unit of biosphere where living organisms interact
with each other and with their surrounding physical environment. It can vary in size from a small pond to a
vast forest.
Components of an Ecosystem:
Biotic Components: The living parts of the ecosystem. This includes Producers (plants that make food),
Consumers (animals that eat plants or other animals), and Decomposers (fungi and bacteria that break down
dead matter).
Abiotic Components: The non-living environmental factors that influence life. These include sunlight,
temperature, water, soil, air, and mineral nutrients.
Energy Flow: Energy enters the ecosystem through sunlight via photosynthesis and moves up the food chain
from producers to herbivores and carnivores. However, energy decreases at each trophic level.
Conclusion: A balance between biotic and abiotic factors is necessary to keep an ecosystem stable and
healthy.

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