Question

Describe a forest ecosystem.

Answer 1

Ecosystem:

1. A system of living organisms which live in harmony and interact with the environment is called ecosystem.
2. Ecosystem has 2 basic components- Biotic and Abiotic.
3. Biotic components consist of living beings like plants, animals and microbes.
4. Abiotic components include wind, water etc.
5. An ecosystem can be small like an aquarium and as huge as a forest.

Forest ecosystem:

1. Forests are large, self-sustaining natural ecosystems where a variety of trees, plants, animals, birds, insects and microorganisms live in harmony in the natural environment.
2. Different forests have different types of plants like trees, creepers, climbers, herbs and shrubs, and a variety of animals depending on the climatic conditions.
3. Forests have plants which produce various types of fruits and seeds. Some of these fall on the ground which is rich in nutrients.
4. These seeds germinate and give rise to seedlings. With time, tiny seedlings grow into new plants.
5. Microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) present in the soil decompose the dead plants and animals and enrich the soil with nutrients.