1. What is Ecology?

– Ecology is the study of the relationships between living organisms and their environment.

2. Ecosystems:
– An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their non-living environment (soil, water, air).
– Ecosystems can be as small as a pond or as large as a forest.

3. Abiotic and Biotic Factors:
– Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem (e.g., sunlight, temperature, water).
– Biotic factors are living organisms in an ecosystem (e.g., plants, animals).

4. Food Chains and Food Webs:
– A food chain shows the transfer of energy from one organism to another.
– A food web is a more complex representation of feeding relationships in an ecosystem.

5. Producers, Consumers, and Decomposers:
– Producers (like plants) make their own food through photosynthesis.
– Consumers (like animals) eat other organisms for energy.
– Decomposers (like fungi and bacteria) break down dead organisms and return nutrients to the soil.

6. Habitats:
– A habitat is where an organism lives, finds food, and raises its young.

7. Adaptations:
– Organisms have special features or behaviors (adaptations) to survive in their habitats. For example, a polar bear’s white fur helps it blend in with the snow.

8. Biodiversity:

– Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth. It’s important for the health of the planet.

9. Conservation:
– Conservation is the protection and management of natural resources to ensure they are not depleted or destroyed.

10. Human Impact:
– Humans can have both positive and negative impacts on ecosystems. Pollution, deforestation, and overfishing are some negative impacts.

11. Recycling and Reducing Waste:
– We can help the environment by recycling, reducing waste, and conserving resources.

12. Endangered Species:
– Some animals and plants are at risk of extinction. Conservation efforts aim to protect these species.

13. Water and Air Quality:
– The quality of air and water affects the health of ecosystems. Pollution can harm plants and animals.

14. Climate Change:
– Climate change is the long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place. It’s caused by human activities and affects ecosystems.

15. Environmental Responsibility:
– Everyone can play a role in protecting the environment by making sustainable choices and being responsible stewards of our planet.

Let’s practice!