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Ecosystem: meaning, definitions and examples

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ecosystem

 

[ˈiː.kəʊˌsɪs.təm ]

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 ‘environment’ 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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "ecosystem" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ecossistema

🇮🇳 पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र

🇩🇪 Ökosystem

🇮🇩 ekosistem

🇺🇦 екосистема

🇵🇱 ekosystem

🇯🇵 生態系 (せいたいけい)

🇫🇷 écosystème

🇪🇸 ecosistema

🇹🇷 ekosistem

🇰🇷 생태계 (saengtaegye)

🇸🇦 نظام بيئي

🇨🇿 ekosystém

🇸🇰 ekosystém

🇨🇳 生态系统 (shēngtài xìtǒng)

🇸🇮 ekosistem

🇮🇸 vistkerfi

🇰🇿 экожүйе

🇬🇪 ეკოსისტემა

🇦🇿 ekosistem

🇲🇽 ecosistema

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.