Ecosystem (Part-I)

Introduction: So far we have discussed about many topic related to the evolution, physiology, molecular cell biology and structure-function of selected macromolecules. In the current lecture, we will discuss the local habitat, and relationship between different organisms. Now the question is, What is mean by Ecosystem? An animal can not live in isolation and interact with biota and abiotic factors, these relationship constitute the ecological system or ecosystem. In other words, ecosystem is defined as structural and functional unit of the biosphere, comprising living and non-living factors and their interaction.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF ECOSYSTEM: Ecosystem is an open system and material can exchange from one ecosystem to another ecosystem. For ex. Frog move from the pond to the land and vice-versa. The ecosystem can be classified based on size, nature and duration;

(1) Nature : On the basis of nature, it can be natural or artificial.

Natural Ecosystem: This ecosystem forms naturally without interference of human. Example include are pond, river, forest, village, hill etc.

Artificial Ecosystem: This ecosystem is developed and mainted by human. Example include are flowerbed, backyard, aquarium etc.  

(2) Duration: On the basis of duration, ecosystem can be classified as temporary or permanent.

Temporary ecosystem: it is short lived and man made or natural. Example include rain fed pond.

Permanent ecosystem: it is long lived and self supported natural ecosystem for very long period. Example includes forest, river etc.

(3) Size: Ecosystem is classified as small or large ecosystem.

Small: it is small and also known as microecosystem. It can be temporary or permanent. For ex. Pond, flowerpot etc

Large: it is large in size and also known as macroecosystem. It is always permanent and mostly natural. For ex. Ocean, river, forest and desert.