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Ecological systems, more commonly known as ecosystems, are functional units that result from the interactions of abiotic, biotic and cultural components. Natural ecosystems, consists of abiotic factors like air, water, rocks, and energy and biotic factors such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. Like most systems, all these factors interact and contribute to form one. All ecosystems are “open” in the sense that energy and matter are transferred. Ecosystems vary in size, ranging from a puddle to the Earth. As a whole, the Earth is a single, independent ecosystem that in constantly converting solar energy into many organic products, and has definitely increased in biological complexity over time. An example of an ecosystem in the United States is the Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province. This ecosystem includes topography of diverse nature and origin. The northern part of this ecosystem has been glaciated. This ecosystem is very hilly and includes part of the Appalachian Mountains. This ecosystem experiences cold winters and warms summers. Average annual temperatures range from 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Precipitation occurs year-round, averaging from 35-60 inches each year. Ecosystems are basically based on two structural components consisting of biotic communities and abiotic environmental factors. The living portion, or biotic portion, of an ecosystem is best described in terms of trophic levels. The first level is made up of primary producers, which is made up of green plants. A few examples of a green plant in the Eastern Broadleaf Province (EBP) are the sugar maple tree, oak tree, eastern hemlock and many assorted fruit trees. In this level plants are able to convert energy from the sun into food through a process called photosynthesis. The second trophic level consists of primary consumers, commonly referred to as herbivores because they are organisms that eat only green plants. Examples of these organisms are horses, cows, and deer. The third trophic level consists of the secondary consumers, more commonly referred to as carnivores. This trophic level also consists of organisms that are omnivores, because they might feed on both plants and animals. Examples of organisms that exist in this level are humans, cats, and coyotes. The fourth trophic level consists of detritus and decomposers, which break down dead or dying matter into nutrients that can be used again.
Approximate Word count = 1474
Approximate Pages = 5.9
(250 words per page double spaced)
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