Ecosystem Meaning and Definition
Ecosystem
Pronunciation
/ɪˈkɔsɪsʊm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A community of living and non-living things, including plants, animals, microorganisms, soil, water, air, and sunlight, that interact with each other in a specific environment and form a complex web of relationships.
Examples
- The forest is an ecosystem that supports a wide variety of plant and animal life.
- The ocean’s ecosystem is critical to the health of marine life and the planet.
Synonyms
- Environment
- Biome
Antonyms
- Isolation
- Disintegration
Additional Information
Ecosystems are dynamic and constantly changing, with species interacting and adapting to their environments. Understanding ecosystems is crucial for managing natural resources, mitigating climate change, and preserving biodiversity. Ecosystems can be terrestrial, such as forests and grasslands, or aquatic, such as oceans and rivers.
Ecosystems provide essential services, including air and water filtration, soil formation, and climate regulation. They also support human well-being by providing food, medicine, and recreational opportunities.
Etymology
The word “ecosystem” was coined in the 1930s by British ecologist Arthur Tansley, who combined the Greek words “oikos” (house or home) and “systema” (organized whole).
Usage Notes
The term “ecosystem” is often used in scientific and academic contexts to describe the interactions between living and non-living components of an environment. It is also used in environmental and conservation contexts to refer to the preservation and restoration of natural habitats.
Cultural References
The concept of ecosystem has appeared in popular culture through films, literature, and documentaries, highlighting the importance of environmental preservation and human responsibility towards the natural world.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Think globally, act locally” – a phrase that emphasizes the importance of considering the global ecosystem and taking individual actions to protect it.
Related Words or Phrases
Biome, Environment, Ecosystem Services, Biodiversity, Conservation
Collocations
Human-ecosystem interaction, Ecosystem restoration, Ecosystem resilience, Ecosystem engineering
Frequency of Use
The term “ecosystem” is regularly used in scientific and academic contexts, and is increasingly used in popular culture and public discourse to discuss environmental issues and conservation efforts.
Common Misspellings
Ecossistem, Ekosistem, Ecosistem