Ecosystem Notes

Ecosystem A system consisting of all of the interactions that occur between biotic and abiotic factors within a given area.

Biotic All of the LIVING factors within an environment

Abiotic All of the NON-LIVING factors within an environment.

Organism An individual form of life that is capable of growing, metabolizing nutrients, and usually reproducing.

Population A group of organisms of the same species located within the same geographical location.

Community All of the populations of different species in a given area or ecosystem.

Ecosystem All of the abiotic and biotic factors within the same geographical location.

Habitat The place where an organism naturally lives and grows.

Niche The function or position of an organism or a population within an ecological community.

Biosphere The portion of Earth that is capable of supporting life.

Species A group of organisms that look like each other and are able to breed among themselves.