02 introduction to ecosystems

This document discusses ecosystems and their components. It defines an ecosystem as all the organisms in a region interacting with each other and their environment. Examples of ecosystems provided include rainforests, deserts, boreal forests, tundra, sea floors, and ponds. Ecosystems contain biotic factors like organisms and biotic factors like abiotic environmental elements. Smaller levels of organization within ecosystems include organisms, populations, communities, and finally the ecosystem itself. Specific ecosystems and their defining biotic and abiotic characteristics are examined, like the boreal forest and beaver ponds. The document concludes with a discussion of sustainability and how humans can impact ecosystems.