An ecosystem is a complex collection of living organisms and their surrounding physical environment, where these organisms interact with each other and the environment in different ways. It includes a specific area’s biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components. Ecosystems can range in size from small, such as puddles of water or tree roots, to massive, such as rainforests or deserts.
The living organisms in an ecosystem are any living single- or multi-celled creature with its metabolism, such as plants, animals, bacteria or fungi. These organisms depend on each other for food, water, shelter and reproduction. The non-living components include climate, temperature, humidity, soil composition and geographical location.
The ecosystem functions as a dynamic system where different species have specific roles and influence each other in different ways, creating a balance and a complex network of interactions. If one species disappears or environmental conditions change, a chain reaction can affect the whole ecosystem.
Ecosystems perform various functions, such as regulating nutrient cycles, purifying water and air, maintaining soil fertility, and providing habitats and resources for humans and other organisms. Human activities, both positive and negative, such as deforestation, pollution, climate change, and conservation efforts, can significantly impact ecosystems.
Sources
The Owls Biology – The Ecosystem – Ecology deals with how organisms interact in an ecosystem 
Nationalgeographic – resource – ecosystem
Libretexts.org – Ecology of Ecosystems
October 2023, TÄNKOM | Revised January 2024 RETHINK
