What is an ecosystem?

An ecosystem is best defined as a community of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. This includes not only the plants and animals that inhabit a particular area but also the relationships they have with each other and with the non-living elements around them, such as air, water, and soil. In this context, the interactions can encompass various processes, such as food chains, nutrient cycles, and energy flows.

Understanding an ecosystem is crucial because it highlights the interconnectedness of life and the environment, showing how changes in one part of the system can impact other parts. For example, the health of plant life affects herbivores, which in turn impacts carnivores, demonstrating the intricate balance within ecosystems. This answer captures the essential features of an ecosystem, emphasizing both the living (biological) and non-living (abiotic) components and their interactions.