(N/A) An ecosystem is defined as an interacting unit that includes both the biological community as well as the non-living components of an area. The living and the non-living components of an ecosystem interact amongst themselves and function as a unit,which is evident during the processes of nutrient cycling,energy flow,decomposition,and productivity.
The two main components of an ecosystem are:
$1$. Biotic component: This includes the living organisms within an ecosystem,such as producers,consumers,and decomposers.
- Producers: These are autotrophs (e.g.,plants and algae) that synthesize their own food using sunlight via photosynthesis.
- Consumers: These are heterotrophs that depend on producers directly or indirectly for food (e.g.,primary,secondary,and tertiary consumers).
- Decomposers: These include microorganisms like bacteria and fungi that obtain nutrients by breaking down dead organic matter.
$2$. Abiotic component: These are the non-living physical and chemical factors of an ecosystem,such as light,temperature,water,soil,air,and inorganic nutrients.