What Makes an Ecosystem?

An ecosystem is a community of living things (plants, animals, and microbes) interacting with each other and with their non-living environment (like sunlight, water, air, and soil). These interactions create complex webs of life, where every organism plays a role.

Why Is Biodiversity Important?

Biodiversity means the variety of life in an ecosystem. More biodiversity often means a healthier and more stable environment. It helps ecosystems recover from disasters, adapt to changes, and provide resources like food, medicine, and clean air.

Types of Ecosystems

• Forests: Home to millions of species, forests store carbon and regulate climate.
• Oceans: Oceans cover most of Earth and are a source of oxygen and food.
• Grasslands: These provide habitats for grazing animals and support agriculture.

Threats to Ecosystems

Human activities like deforestation, pollution, and urbanization can harm ecosystems and reduce biodiversity.

Key Takeaways

• All parts of an ecosystem are connected.
• Biodiversity keeps nature balanced and resilient.