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Move from lesson study to exam practice in Life Sciences.
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment. It includes both biotic factors, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, and abiotic factors, such as water, soil, and climate. Ecosystems can be as small as a pond or as large as a forest, and they function through the flow of energy and cycling of nutrients.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It encompasses the diversity of species, genetic variations, and the variety of ecosystems. High biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem resilience, allowing ecosystems to recover from disturbances and maintain functionality. It also provides resources for food, medicine, and ecosystem services.
Consider a forest ecosystem. The biotic components include trees, shrubs, birds, insects, and mammals. The abiotic components include sunlight, temperature, soil, and water. Each component plays a role; for instance, trees provide oxygen and habitat, while soil supports plant growth. Understanding these interactions helps us appreciate the complexity of ecosystems.
In a coral reef ecosystem, biodiversity is evident through the variety of species, including corals, fish, and invertebrates. Each species contributes to the health of the reef. For example, herbivorous fish help control algae growth, ensuring corals receive enough sunlight. This interdependence highlights how biodiversity supports ecosystem stability.
In pairs, students will select a local ecosystem (e.g., a park, river, or garden) and list its biotic and abiotic components. They should consider how these components interact. After 15 minutes, each pair will share their findings with the class, fostering discussion on the diversity of ecosystems.
Students will choose an ecosystem of their choice and conduct research on its biodiversity. They should focus on the types of species present, their roles, and the threats to this biodiversity. A one-page report summarizing their findings will be submitted next week, encouraging independent exploration of the topic.
Answer: A community of living organisms and their environment
An ecosystem includes both living organisms and their physical environment, interacting as a system.
Answer: Climate change
Climate change affects biodiversity but is not a component of it.
Answer: Biodiversity is important because it enhances ecosystem resilience, supports food webs, and provides resources for humans.
High biodiversity allows ecosystems to recover from disturbances and maintain their functions.
Answer: Plants
Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem, such as plants and animals.
Answer: Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem. Examples include sunlight and water.
Abiotic factors influence the living organisms in an ecosystem.
Answer: By allowing ecosystems to recover from disturbances
Biodiversity enhances resilience, enabling ecosystems to bounce back after disruptions.
Answer: Rainforest
Rainforests are known for their vast variety of species and complex ecosystems.
Answer: Habitat destruction is a major threat to biodiversity.
When habitats are destroyed, species lose their homes, leading to declines in populations and extinction.