Ecosystems Vocabulary Part 2

Heterotroph

Organism that consumes other organisms for energy.

Decomposer

Breaks down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients.

Nitrogen Fixation

Process converting atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms of nitrogen

Nitrogen Cycle

Movement of nitrogen through atmosphere, soil, and organisms.

Phosphorus Cycle

Movement of phosphorus through rocks, soil, water, and organisms.

Carbon Cycle

Flow of carbon among atmosphere, ecosystems, and organisms.

Carbon Sink

Natural reservoir that stores carbon, reducing atmospheric CO2.

Carbon Source

Releases carbon into the atmosphere, increasing CO2 levels.

10% Rule

Only 10% of energy is transferred between trophic levels.

Biomass

Total mass of living matter in a given area.

Energy Pyramid

Graphical representation of energy flow in ecosystems.