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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