Vocab #2 Ecology - Ecosystems

Vocabulary terms and definitions related to ecology and ecosystems, focusing on biological interactions, organism roles, and environmental factors.

Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Producer

Organisms that produce their own food.

Pollution

The introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that cause a negative impact.

Aquatic

Of or relating to water.

Decompose

Organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms.

Terrestrial

Relating to the earth or its inhabitants; land.

Symbiotic

Interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association; typically for the advantage of both.

Photosynthesis

Process by which plants and some other organisms use light energy to convert light from the sun into chemical energy.

Consumer

Organisms that rely on other organisms for energy and food.

Water quality

Measure of the suitability of water for a particular use based on selected physical, and biological characteristics.