ecosystem etymology

Etymology:

  • Eco- (Greek): House, dwelling
  • System (Greek): System, organized arrangement

Meaning and Origin:

The term "ecosystem" was coined in 1935 by the British ecologist Sir Arthur Tansley. It is derived from the Greek words "oikos" (house, dwelling) and "systema" (system, organized arrangement).

Definition:

An ecosystem is a self-contained, functional unit of living organisms (biota) interacting with their non-living environment (abiotic factors), which are linked together through energy flows and nutrient cycles. Ecosystems can range in size from a small pond to an entire biosphere.

Key Components of an Ecosystem:

  • Biotic Factors:
    • Producers (plants and algae)
    • Consumers (herbivores, carnivores, omnivores, decomposers)
  • Abiotic Factors:
    • Physical factors (climate, soil, water)
    • Chemical factors (nutrients, pH, dissolved oxygen)

Functions of an Ecosystem:

  • Energy flow
  • Nutrient cycling
  • Water cycling
  • Soil formation
  • Habitat provision
  • Climate regulation

Importance of Ecosystems:

Ecosystems are essential for life on Earth as they provide vital services such as:

  • Food and oxygen production
  • Water purification
  • Carbon sequestration
  • Recreation and tourism opportunities
  • Biodiversity conservation

ecosystem relate terms

  • system

    Etymology The word system comes from the Late Latin systema which is derived from t

  • ecology

    Etymology Eco Greek oikos meaning home or environment Logos Greek logia me

  • scheme

    Etymology The word scheme comes from the Middle English word scheme which in turn co

  • comprehend

    Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It involves tracing

  • coupon

    Etymology French coupon Latin cooperio meaning to cut Meaning A certificate o

  • Exodus

    Etymology The word Exodus is derived from the Greek exodos which means going out

  • contemplation

    Etymology From Middle English contemplacioun from Old French contemplacion from Latin

  • develop

    Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin of words and the way their meaning has cha

  • accord

    Etymology The word accord has its roots in Latin accordāre to be in agreement

  • blue

    Etymology The word blue originates from the Middle English blewe which in turn is de

  • stop

    Etymology The word stop comes from the Middle English word stoppen which itself deri