key term - Ecosystem Ecology

Definition

Ecosystem ecology is the study of how living organisms interact with each other and their physical environment within a specific area. It focuses on understanding the flow of energy and nutrients through ecosystems.

Related terms

Biotic components: These are the living organisms within an ecosystem, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.

Abiotic components: These are the non-living factors that influence an ecosystem, such as temperature, sunlight, soil composition, water availability, and air quality.

Trophic levels: Refers to different levels in a food chain or food web where organisms obtain energy. Producers (plants) occupy the first trophic level followed by primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and so on.