Understanding Ecosystems

What is an ecosystem?

• A single species living in isolation

• A group of non-living materials

• A type of biome

• A community of living organisms and their non-living surroundings

What is a biome?

• A type of microorganism

• A single plant species

• A small puddle

• A large ecosystem like a desert or forest

What happens in a food web if a species declines?

• The food web becomes a food chain

• Other species may increase or decrease in response

• The ecosystem remains unaffected

• All species increase in number

Which of the following is an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

• Herbivores

• Carnivores

• Sunlight

• Decomposers

Why are decomposers important in an ecosystem?

• They produce energy for plants

• They break down dead matter and recycle nutrients

• They are at the top of the food chain

• They prevent sunlight from reaching the ground