Ecosystem
- Pronunciation
- /ee-koh-SIS-tuhm/
- Category
- Ecology
- Singular
- Ecosystem
- Plural
- Ecosystems
Definition
A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment, which includes both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components.
Etymology
Coined from the Greek 'oikos' meaning 'house' and 'systema' meaning 'system' in the early 20th century.
Example
The forest ecosystem includes trees, insects, birds, mammals, fungi, and the surrounding soil and water.
Synonyms
- Biocoenosis
- Ecological community
Related Terms
Usage Notes
An ecosystem can vary greatly in size and can be as small as a puddle or as large as an ocean.