Ecosystem

Definition

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms and their interactions with their environment, including both living and non-living components.

Scientific / Technical Definition

In biology, an ecosystem refers to a spatially explicit unit of the Earth that includes all of the organisms, along with all of the components of the abiotic environment, within its boundaries. This integrative system processes energy and matter as living organisms interact with their physical surroundings.

Benefits

• Supports biodiversity, ensuring a wide variety of life forms.
• Maintains a natural balance, regulating processes such as pollination and nutrient cycles.
• Helps in detoxifying the environment and cycling nutrients, which is crucial for soil fertility.

Examples

• A forest ecosystem, which includes trees, animals, insects, and soil.
• Marine ecosystems, including ocean and coral reefs.
• Agricultural ecosystems, which can vary as organic or conventional.

Additional Information

• Importance: Ecosystems are vital for the survival of life as they provide essential services such as food, water, and air purification, which support human life and welfare.

Related Terms

• Biodiversity
• Conventional Farming
• Sustainability

References

• Understanding Ecosystems - Department of Environmental Affairs
• Ecosystem Services - Millennium Ecosystem Assessment