Question
GSEasyPrelims 2015Environment & Ecology

Which one of the following is the best description of the term “ecosystem”?

Explanation

An ecosystem is a functional unit of nature where living organisms (biotic factors) interact among themselves and with their physical environment (abiotic factors) such as sunlight, water, and soil.

Key components of an ecosystem:

  1. Biotic Components: Includes all living things like plants, animals, and microorganisms.
  2. Abiotic Components: Includes non-living elements like air, water, soil, and sunlight.
  3. Interdependence: It highlights the flow of energy and cycling of nutrients between the living and non-living components.

Analysis of Options:

  • Option A: Describes a 'community' (only interactions between living organisms).
  • Option B: Describes the 'biosphere' (the zone of Earth where life exists).
  • Option C: Correctly defines an ecosystem as the combination of the biotic community and its abiotic environment.
  • Option D: Refers to the 'biota' or 'biodiversity' of a specific region.

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