2.1 Structure of Ecosystems
2.1 Structure of Ecosystems
2.1 Structure of Ecosystems
1 Structure of
Ecosystems
ESS1
2014
ASSESSMENT STATEMENTS
▪ 2.1.1 Distinguish between biotic and abiotic
components of an ecosystem
▪ 2.1.2 Define the term trophic level
▪ 2.1.3 Identify and explain trophic levels in food
chains and food webs selected from the local
environment.
▪ 2.1.6 Define the terms species, population,
habitat, niche, community, and ecosystem with
reference to local examples.
What is an Ecosystem?
A community of interdependent
organisms and the interactions with the
physical environment in which they live.
It can also be defined as the abiotic and
biotic factors and the interactions
between them.
The interaction between organisms and
the environment is the key!
How many of these terms do you know?
Arrows show
direction of energy
flow
Always starts with
producers
Only biotic factors
included
Ends with top
consumer
FOOD WEBS
▪ Show energy flow
through an
ecosystem
▪ An ecosystem’s
trophic structure
determines energy
flow and nutrient
cycling
Energy Flow in Ecosystems &
1st Law of Thermodynamics
TROPHIC LEVELS & ENERGY
TROPHIC LEVELS & BIOMASS
Energy Flow in Ecosystems &
2nd Law of Thermodynamics