Ecology UnitTopic 1: Relationships in Ecosystems

Ecosystem = All the living organisms in an area and their non-living environment

The Study of EcologyEcology = the study of how organisms interact with the environment

Abiotic and Biotic Definitions

abiotic factors = non-living components of the environment Ex: rocks, water, mineralsEx: physical factors such as temperature, pH, weather

biotic factors= living or once-living biological components Ex: trees, people, animals, bacteria

Organism:– A living thing such as a

plant, animal, bacteriaPopulation:– Group of individuals

of the same species in the same place and time.

Community:– 2 or more populations

in an area• Examples:

– Penguins and walruses in Antarctica

– Elephants and zebras in African savannah

– Polar bears and seals in the Arctic

Organization of the Living World

Differences in Ecosystems• Ecosystems can vary in size and in their biotic and

abiotic features.• Large Ecosystems: A coniferous forest or coral reef • Small Ecosystems: A beaver pond or rotting log

Brainstorm with a partner:• What biotic and abiotic features do you see in each

ecosystem?

Coniferous Forest Rotting Log

Sustainable Ecosystems• Ecosystems that are capable

of being maintained through natural processes are called sustainable

• Other ecosystems are strongly influenced by human actions and require regular management

Brainstorm with a partner:• What are some examples of

human-made ecosystems?

Factors Affecting EcosystemsExamples of Natural Events Affecting Ecosystems:

Examples of Human Events Affecting Ecosystems:

Can you add to your list and think of some other examples?