Ecosystem Flashcards, test questions and answers
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What is Ecosystem?
An ecosystem is an intricate network of living organisms and their environment, interacting with each other in complex ways. The environment includes physical factors such as climate, soil, water, topography and the presence of other plants and animals. Together they form an interdependent system that shapes the life of millions of species around the world. An ecosystem can range from a tiny pond to a vast ocean or even a rainforest. It provides essential services such as air purification, water cycling and food production for both people and wildlife alike. The health of an ecosystem is closely linked to its biodiversity – the number and variety of species it supports – which makes it more resilient to changes in climate or environmental conditions. A healthy ecosystem also has strong connections between species: predators may keep prey populations under control, while mutualistic relationships like pollination help ensure that key species are supported. Human activities such as land clearing for agriculture or urban development can have dramatic impacts on ecosystems, reducing their complexity and weakening their ability to provide essential services for people and wildlife alike. To mitigate this impact we must strive for sustainable management practices that consider not just economic benefits but also long-term environmental effects on an area’s biodiversity. This includes protecting important habitats like wetlands or old-growth forests; reducing pollution; introducing pest controls; encouraging native plantings; promoting sustainable harvesting methods; limiting invasive species; raising public awareness; restoring damaged areas; establishing protected areas; improving land-use planning processes; supporting local initiatives which value nature conservation/biodiversity protection etc. Ultimately preserving the health of our ecosystems is essential if we want future generations to enjoy clean air, clean water and abundant wildlife something that all living things rely on now more than ever before.