Ecosystem

Lesson

Part 1 — an ecosystem is a functional unit of nature in which living organisms interact among themselves and with their physical surroundings.

In this lesson you will

Define an ecosystem and give examples of its types
Describe the biotic and abiotic components and stratification
Describe the structure and functions of a pond ecosystem

Concept

Types of ecosystems

Ecosystems are broadly terrestrial or aquatic, and some are man-made.

Table of terrestrial, aquatic and man-made ecosystems with examples
Type	Examples
Terrestrial	Forest, grassland, desert
Aquatic	Pond, lake, wetland, river, estuary
Man-made	Crop fields, aquarium

Concept

Structure: biotic and abiotic

In an ecosystem, biotic and abiotic components interact and function as a unit. The interaction produces a physical structure characteristic of each type of ecosystem. Identification and enumeration of plant and animal species gives its species composition.

Table of ecosystem components with examples
Component	Examples
Abiotic	Water, soil, dissolved inorganic and organic substances, sunlight, temperature
Producers (autotrophs)	Plants, phytoplankton, algae
Consumers (heterotrophs)	Herbivores, carnivores
Decomposers	Bacteria, fungi

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