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The Components of an Ecosystem |
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AS / A2 / IB Geography (16-18 yrs) |  |
Revise this Topic |  |
Links to GCSE / IGCSE Geography |
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| Terms and definitions | Define the term ecosystem and be aware of variations in ecosystem scale ranging from micro-scales (niches) to macroscales (biomes). Be able to define ecosystems in terms of inputs, flows, stores and outputs. |
Biotic components Abiotic components |
Demonstrate an awareness of how the biotic (plants, animals, soil, bacteria, fungi) and abiotic (water, air, minerals, nutrients, light) components interrelate to form a natural functioning system, taking into account other contributory factors of acidity, temperature, humidity and wind. |
| Links between the various components | Understand the relevant concepts of dynamic equilibrium, food webs and food chains. Demonstrate an awareness of the complexity of links between biotic and abiotic components and how changes to one or more of the components can disturb the equilibrium of the system, especially as a result of human activity. Understand how positive and negative feedback contribute to the stability of the system. |
| Fragility, vulnerability and resilience of the system |
Understand that changes to ecosystems may be temporary (where recovery may occur leading to the re-establishment of the system) or permanent, leading to modification of the system. |
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