Ecosystems

Community of living organisms and their physical environment.

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their physical environment, forming a complex network of relationships that support life.

Etymology

The term 'ecosystem' was coined by British botanist Arthur Tansley in 1935.

Explain Like I’m 5

An ecosystem is like a neighborhood where plants, animals, and even tiny bugs all live together and depend on each other and their surroundings like sunlight and water.

Fun Facts

The Amazon rainforest is the largest ecosystem on Earth
Coral reefs are often called 'rainforests of the sea'
Some ecosystems, like deserts, can thrive with very little rainfall

FAQ

What is an ecosystem? A community of living things interacting with their environment
How are ecosystems important? They provide essential resources like clean air and water
What is a biome? A large-scale ecosystem characterized by specific climate conditions

Synonyms — Similar or Related Terms

ecological systems

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

biotic community environment

Hyponyms — Specific Examples

forest ecosystem desert ecosystem aquatic ecosystem

Meronyms — Parts or Components

biotic factors abiotic factors

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

biosphere planet

Built by Tim Jones