ecosystem definition

Abiotic components

Non-living environmental factors that have influence over the ecosystem (e.g. climate, light exposure, soil type)

Biome

Also known as a global-scale ecosystem; a large, distinct region of the Earth with similar climate, soil, plants and animals.

Biotic components

Living organisms that interact with the environment and other organisms within an ecosystem

Coniferous forest biome

A biome located at high latitudes,characterised by conifer trees and a cold climate.

Consumers

Organisms that receive energy from consuming (i.e. eating) living organisms.

Decomposers

Organisms that break down organic material and release the nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Desert biome

A biome located around 30° north and south of the equator, characterised by extremely low precipitation levels and extreme daily temperature fluctuations.

Ecosystem

A natural system in which a community of plants and animals interact with each other and their physical environment.

Eutrophication

The growth of algae in a body of water due to excess nutrients, leading to the depletion of oxygen in an aquatic ecosystem.

Food chain

A linear relationship showing the biotic interactions within an ecosystem, from a producer to a final consumer.

Food web

A representation of the interactions between multiple producers and consumers within a specific ecosystem, shown through a series of different food webs.

Mediterranean biome

A biome located 40-45° north of the equator (and in isolated spots south of the equator), characterised by mild, moist winters and hot, dry summers

Nutrient cycling

The transfer of nutrients through an ecosystem, from the decay of organic material into the production and energy of living organisms.

Producers

Organisms that convert energy from the environment (mainly sunlight) into sugars (glucose).

Savanna biome

A biome located around 15-30° north and south of the equator, characterised by high temperatures, very dry summers and very wet winters.

Temperate deciduous forest biome

A biome located around 40-50° north and south of the equator, characterised by deciduous trees (trees that shed their leaves) and moderate precipitation.

Temperate grassland biome

A biome located in non-coastal areas around 30-40° north and south of the equator, characterised by low precipitation and grasses as the major vegetation.

Tropical rainforest biome

A biome located near the equator, characterised by very high precipitation and sustained warm temperatures.

Tundra biome

A biome located in the far northern hemisphere, characterised by very cold conditions and permanently frozen soils.