How Ecosystems Work

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, and climate) in a specific area.

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What are producers in an ecosystem?

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Producers are organisms, primarily plants and algae, that can make their own food through photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy.

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What are consumers in an ecosystem?

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Consumers are organisms that cannot produce their own food and must eat other organisms (plants or animals) to obtain energy.

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What is a herbivore?

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A herbivore is an animal that primarily eats plants.

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What is a carnivore?

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A carnivore is an animal that primarily eats other animals.

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What is an omnivore?

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An omnivore is an animal that eats both plants and animals.

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What is a decomposer?

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Decomposers are organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that break down dead organic material, returning nutrients to the soil.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

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What is cellular respiration?

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Cellular respiration is the process by which cells break down glucose and other organic molecules to produce energy (ATP), using oxygen.

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What role do bacteria play in deep-ocean ecosystems?

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Bacteria in deep-ocean ecosystems serve as primary consumers, breaking down organic matter and serving as a food source for other organisms.