Kinds of Ecosystems

Detailed Summary

• An ecosystem is a functional unit in which living organisms (plants, animals, microbes) interact with each other and with their physical environment (air, water, soil, climate). Depending on size, nature, and influence of humans, ecosystems can be divided into natural and artificial (man-made) types.

Natural Ecosystems

• These form without human interference and maintain a natural balance.
• Terrestrial ecosystems:
• Forest ecosystem: Dense vegetation, high rainfall, rich biodiversity, complex food webs.
• Grassland ecosystem: Dominated by grasses, supports herbivores like deer and carnivores like lions.
• Desert ecosystem: Hot days, cold nights, little rainfall, cactus and xerophytes, animals like camels, snakes.
• Mountain ecosystem: Cold climate, coniferous vegetation, animals adapted to snow (yak, snow leopard).
• • Aquatic ecosystems:
  • Freshwater ecosystems: Rivers, ponds, lakes. Support fish, amphibians, aquatic plants.
  • Marine ecosystems: Oceans and seas. Contain saltwater, whales, sharks, seaweeds, corals.

Artificial Ecosystems

• These are created, controlled, or modified by humans.
• Examples: crop fields, aquariums, gardens, parks.
• They often depend on human care and are less balanced than natural ecosystems.

Differences Between Natural and Artificial Ecosystems

• Origin: Natural → self-made; Artificial → man-made.
• Balance: Natural → self-sustaining; Artificial → need maintenance.
• Diversity: Natural → rich biodiversity; Artificial → limited species.

Importance of Different Ecosystems

• Provide food, raw materials, and oxygen.
• Regulate climate, rainfall, and soil fertility.
• Offer habitats for countless species.
• Maintain ecological balance through energy flow and nutrient cycling.
• Support human activities like agriculture, fishing, and forestry.

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