Ecosystem and Environmental Geography

These flashcards cover key concepts related to ecosystems, including definitions and examples of biotic and abiotic factors, as well as their interactions.

What is an ecosystem?

A community of plants and animals that interact with one another and their physical environment.

What are abiotic factors?

Relating to non-living things in an ecosystem.

What are biotic factors?

Relating to living things in an ecosystem.

Give examples of abiotic components in an ecosystem.

Sunshine, rain, wind, frost, rock type, soil.

Give examples of biotic components in a woodland ecosystem.

Insects, birds, rabbits, squirrels, plants like trees and mosses.

How do abiotic and biotic factors interact in an ecosystem?

They work together to provide for a healthy ecosystem.

What is the smallest scale of an ecosystem called?

A habitat.

Name a type of global biome.

Tropical rainforest or desert.

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

They break down dead plants and animals, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem.

How do soils contribute to an ecosystem?

They store water, contain nutrients for plants, and are home to insects and decomposers.

What elements are essential for photosynthesis?

Sunshine and rain.

What key word describes living elements of an ecosystem?

Biotic.

What key word describes non-living elements of an ecosystem?

Abiotic.