Ecosystem: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.