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Ecosystem Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ecosystem

[หˆiห.kษ™สŠหŒsษชs.tษ™m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

environmental

An ecosystem is a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Synonyms

biome, environment, habitat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ecosystem

Use this word when talking about the network of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their physical surroundings.

  • The health of our ecosystem depends on a variety of species working together.
  • Climate change is affecting the balance of marine ecosystems.
environment

Use โ€˜environmentโ€™ when discussing the surrounding conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. This term is more general and encompasses social and cultural conditions as well.

  • Recycling can help protect the environment.
  • Children develop better in a nurturing environment.
habitat

This word is best used for describing the natural home or environment of a specific plant, animal, or other organism.

  • The panda's natural habitat is the bamboo forests of China.
  • Urban development is threatening the habitat of many local species.
biome

This term is suitable when referring to a large area characterized by its vegetation, soil, climate, and wildlife.

  • The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest biome in the world.
  • Scientists are studying the diverse biomes of the Arctic tundra.

Examples of usage

  • The coral reef ecosystem is one of the most diverse in the world.
  • Human activities can disrupt the balance of an ecosystem.
Context #2 | Noun

business

An ecosystem is a network of interconnected businesses, organizations, and individuals that coexist and interact within a specific industry or area.

Synonyms

community, ecology, network.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ecosystem

Use in scientific or environmental discussions to describe a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

  • The Amazon rainforest is home to a diverse ecosystem.
  • Climate change can significantly impact fragile ecosystems.
network

Commonly used in technology and social contexts to describe a system of interconnected people, organizations, or devices. Can also be used in biological contexts to describe interconnected systems.

  • The office has a sophisticated computer network.
  • Social media creates a network of connections across the globe.
community

Refer to a group of people living in the same area or having a particular characteristic in common. Can also be used to describe groups of animals or plants in a shared environment.

  • The local community gathered to celebrate the festival.
  • Different species in a forest form a biological community.
ecology

Used mainly in the scientific study of organisms and their interactions with the environment. Refers to the branch of biology concerned with these relationships.

  • She is studying marine ecology at the university.
  • Understanding the principles of ecology is essential for environmental conservation.

Examples of usage

  • The tech ecosystem in Silicon Valley is known for its innovation and entrepreneurship.
  • Collaboration between different companies is crucial for a healthy ecosystem.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Ecosystems can be as small as a puddle or as large as a rainforest, and all have complex interactions among their components.
  • They are essential for providing services like clean air, water purification, pollination, and climate regulation.

Environmental Issues

  • Human activities, such as pollution and deforestation, threaten the balance of ecosystems, leading to loss of biodiversity.
  • Restoration efforts are vital; they aim to recover the health of ecosystems, often involving native plant and animal reintroduction.

Literature

  • Numerous books and articles explore the concept of ecosystems, emphasizing their beauty and fragility, such as Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring'.
  • Ecological themes often appear in storytelling as metaphors for balance, interdependence, and sustainability in nature.

Pop Culture

  • Films like 'Avatar' depict rich, vibrant ecosystems, underscoring the importance of preserving these environments.
  • Video games often feature ecosystems as environments where players interact with flora and fauna, learning about their complexities in a fun way.

Origin of 'ecosystem'

Main points about word origin

  • The term combines 'eco', derived from the Greek 'oikos' meaning 'household', and 'system', indicating the interconnectedness of various parts.
  • First used in 1935 by British ecologist Arthur Tansley, it marked a shift in understanding the relationship between organisms and their environment.

The term 'ecosystem' was first coined by British ecologist Arthur Tansley in the 1930s. Tansley used the word to describe the complex interactions between living organisms and their environment. The concept of an ecosystem has since become fundamental to the field of ecology, helping scientists understand the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,926 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.