Ecosystems

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (air, water, soil) in a specific area.

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What are producers in an ecosystem?

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Producers are organisms, like plants, that make their own food using sunlight through a process called photosynthesis.

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What are consumers in an ecosystem?

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Consumers are organisms that cannot make their own food and rely on eating other organisms (plants or animals) for energy.

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What are decomposers?

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Decomposers are organisms, like fungi and bacteria, that break down dead plants and animals, returning nutrients to the soil.

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How do loggers affect forest ecosystems?

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Loggers can harm forest ecosystems by removing trees, which reduces shelter and food for animals, and disrupts the balance of the ecosystem.

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What happens when a new species is introduced to an ecosystem?

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Introducing a new species can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, potentially harming native species and altering food chains.

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What is the role of sunlight in an ecosystem?

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Sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, allowing producers to create food, which supports the entire food web.

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How do human activities impact ecosystems?

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Human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, and urbanization, can lead to habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and changes in ecosystem dynamics.

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in an ecosystem, including different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms.

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Why are decomposers important in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers are important because they recycle nutrients back into the soil, making them available for producers to use.