■ ECOSYSTEM – COMPLETE DETAILED
EXPLANATION (GRADE 9)
1. Introduction to Ecosystem
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, microorganisms) interacting with non-living
components such as air, water, soil, sunlight, and temperature.
Ecosystem = Living components + Non-living components + Interactions
Basic Ecosystem Interaction
Plants Animals Decomposers
2. Components of an Ecosystem
Ecosystem components are divided into two main categories:
• Biotic components – all living organisms
• Abiotic components – non-living physical and chemical factors
3. Abiotic Components
Abiotic components include sunlight, air, water, temperature, soil, and minerals. These factors directly affect
the survival and distribution of organisms.
4. Biotic Components
Biotic components are living organisms and are classified into producers, consumers, and decomposers.
Biotic Components
Plants Animals Decomposers
5. Producers (Autotrophs)
Producers are green plants that prepare their own food by the process of photosynthesis.
Photosynthesis: Carbon dioxide + Water + Sunlight → Glucose + Oxygen
6. Consumers (Heterotrophs)
Consumers depend on producers or other consumers for food. They include herbivores, carnivores,
omnivores, and top consumers.
7. Decomposers
Decomposers such as bacteria and fungi break down dead plants and animals into simpler substances,
recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
8. Food Chain
A food chain shows the transfer of energy from one organism to another.
Example: Grass → Deer → Lion
9. Food Web
A food web is a network of interconnected food chains. It provides stability to the ecosystem.
10. Trophic Levels
Trophic Level Organisms
1st Producers
2nd Primary Consumers
3rd Secondary Consumers
4th Tertiary Consumers
11. Energy Flow in Ecosystem
Energy flows in one direction from the sun to producers and then to consumers. Only 10% of energy is
transferred to the next trophic level.
12. Ecological Pyramids
Ecological pyramids represent number, biomass, or energy at each trophic level. Pyramid of energy is always
upright.
13. Types of Ecosystems
Terrestrial: Forest, Grassland, Desert, Tundra
Aquatic: Pond, Lake, River, Ocean
14. Artificial Ecosystem
Artificial ecosystems are man-made and require human care, such as aquariums and crop fields.
15. Natural Ecosystem
Natural ecosystems are self-sustaining systems such as forests, ponds, and oceans.
16. Balance in Ecosystem
Balance is maintained when all organisms and abiotic factors function properly. Disturbances include pollution
and deforestation.
17. Importance of Ecosystem
Ecosystems support life, regulate climate, recycle nutrients, and conserve biodiversity.
18. Human Impact and Conservation
Human activities like pollution and deforestation disturb ecosystems. Conservation methods include
afforestation, wildlife protection, and sustainable development.