Transcript Ecology Unit Topic 1: Relationships in Ecosystems

Ecology Unit
Topic 1: Relationships in Ecosystems
The Study of Ecology
Ecology = the study
of how organisms
interact with the
environment
Ecosystem = All
the living organisms
in an area and their
non-living
environment
Abiotic and Biotic Definitions
biotic factors= living or onceliving biological components
Ex: trees, people, animals,
bacteria
abiotic factors = non-living
components of the
environment
Ex: rocks, water, minerals
Ex: physical factors such as
temperature, pH, weather
Organization of the Living World
Organism:
– A living thing such as a
plant, animal, bacteria
Population:
– 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
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 Ecosystems
Examples of Natural Events Affecting Ecosystems:
Examples of Human Events Affecting Ecosystems:
Can you add to your list and think of some other
examples?