Ecosystems and Their Components

Overview

• Ecosystems are composed of living organisms and their physical environments.
• These can range in size from small (e.g., a log) to large (e.g., Yellowstone National Park).
• Ecosystems consist of biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors.

Characteristics of Living Things (Biotic)

• Must have cells.
• Consume energy.
• Regulate their systems (homeostasis).
• Ability to grow.
• Sense their environment and respond to stimuli.
• Have levels of organization.
• Capable of reproduction.

Examples of Biotic Factors

• Trees, grass, birds, squirrels, mushrooms, moss, earthworms, bacteria, etc.

Characteristics of Non-Living Things (Abiotic)

• Do not possess one or more of the characteristics of living things.

Examples of Abiotic Factors

• Rocks, clouds, wind, water, fire, oxygen, temperature, sunlight, etc.

Case Studies

• Trees: Alive. They grow, reproduce, maintain homeostasis, and respond to their environment. E.g., phototrophism.
• Rocks: Not alive. Cannot reproduce or grow.
• Clouds: Not alive. Depend on wind and moisture, do not have cells.

Interaction Between Biotic and Abiotic Factors

• These interactions create complex and interconnected ecosystems.
• Living organisms need non-living factors to survive.

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