Science Module: Understanding
Ecosystems
I. Introduction
Ecosystems are the foundation of life on Earth. They include all the living organisms in a
particular area, as well as the non-living elements of their environment. The interaction
between these biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components results in a dynamic and
complex system that sustains life. This module explores what ecosystems are, how they
function, their types, and how human activities impact them. Understanding ecosystems is
crucial for conserving biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future for our planet.
II. Learning Objectives
• Define what an ecosystem is.
• Identify the components of an ecosystem.
• Explain how energy flows and nutrients cycle within ecosystems.
• Describe different types of ecosystems and their characteristics.
• Analyze the role of humans in ecosystem change and conservation.
III. Key Concepts and Terms
Ecosystem – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical
environment.
Biotic Factors – The living components of an ecosystem (e.g., plants, animals, bacteria).
Abiotic Factors – The non-living components of an ecosystem (e.g., sunlight, water, soil,
temperature).
Producer (Autotroph) – An organism that produces its own food using sunlight or chemicals
(e.g., plants, algae).
Consumer (Heterotroph) – An organism that obtains energy by feeding on other organisms.
Decomposer – An organism that breaks down dead or decaying organisms (e.g., fungi,
bacteria).
Food Chain – A linear sequence showing how energy flows from one organism to another.
Food Web – A complex network of interconnected food chains within an ecosystem.
Biodiversity – The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
IV. Components of an Ecosystem
Ecosystems are made up of two main components:
1. Biotic Components – These include all living things in the ecosystem:
• Producers: Plants and algae that produce energy through photosynthesis.
• Consumers: Herbivores, carnivores, omnivores that consume other organisms.
• Decomposers: Fungi and bacteria that break down dead matter.
2. Abiotic Components – These include non-living elements like sunlight, temperature,
water, air, and minerals.
These components interact in complex ways to sustain the life processes of organisms and
maintain ecosystem balance.
V. Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycles
Energy flows through ecosystems in a one-way stream, from the sun to producers and then
to various levels of consumers. This flow of energy is represented by food chains and food
webs. At each step in the food chain, some energy is lost as heat.
Nutrient cycles such as the carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, water cycle, and phosphorus cycle
allow essential elements to be reused and recycled within the ecosystem. These cycles
ensure that nutrients are available to support life continuously.
VI. Types of Ecosystems
Ecosystems vary greatly depending on their location, climate, and other environmental
conditions. The two major categories are:
1. Terrestrial Ecosystems:
• Forest Ecosystem: Dense tree cover, high biodiversity, and varying climates.
• Grassland Ecosystem: Dominated by grasses, with few trees and moderate rainfall.
• Desert Ecosystem: Low rainfall, extreme temperatures, and specialized plants and
animals.
• Tundra Ecosystem: Cold, treeless regions with permafrost and low biodiversity.
2. Aquatic Ecosystems:
• Freshwater Ecosystem: Includes rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds.
• Marine Ecosystem: Includes oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries with high salt content.
VII. Human Impact on Ecosystems
Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, overfishing, urbanization, and climate
change have significantly affected ecosystems. These actions can lead to habitat destruction,
loss of biodiversity, and disruption of natural processes.
However, humans can also play a role in protecting ecosystems through conservation
efforts, sustainable resource use, environmental laws, and community education.
Preserving ecosystems is essential for maintaining life-support systems on Earth.
VIII. Activities and Questions
Activity 1: Build a Food Web
Using pictures or drawings, create a food web that includes at least 10 organisms from a
local ecosystem. Label producers, consumers (primary, secondary, tertiary), and
decomposers.
Activity 2: Ecosystem Observation
Visit a nearby ecosystem (such as a park, garden, or beach). Observe and list the biotic and
abiotic components. Write a short report describing how these components interact.
Comprehension Questions
1. What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?
2. Why are decomposers important in an ecosystem?
3. How do humans negatively and positively affect ecosystems?
4. What is the role of producers in the food chain?
5. Give examples of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
IX. Summary
Ecosystems are essential systems that support life by maintaining the flow of energy and
cycling of nutrients. They include all living organisms and their physical environment,
interacting as a unit. The balance within ecosystems is delicate, and human actions can
disrupt this balance. Through understanding, respect, and responsible behavior, we can
protect these vital natural systems and ensure their sustainability for future generations.
