Ecosystem Mind Map

An ecosystem is a functional unit of nature formed by interaction between biotic components such as plants, animals and microbes, and abiotic components such as light, temperature, water, air and soil.

For a short answer, write definition first, then divide components into biotic and abiotic, and add one example showing producer-consumer-decomposer linkage.

Productivity is the rate of biomass or organic matter production by organisms in an ecosystem per unit area over a given time period.

When GPP and NPP appear together, always mention respiration. The relation NPP equals GPP minus respiration is the most tested scoring point.

Decomposition is the breakdown of complex dead organic matter into simpler inorganic substances by decomposers such as bacteria and fungi.

For decomposition questions, write the steps in order: fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification and mineralisation.

Energy flow is the transfer of energy through trophic levels of an ecosystem, beginning with producers and moving through consumers and decomposers, with loss of energy at each transfer.

Whenever the 10 percent law is asked, mention trophic levels and energy loss as heat during transfer.

An ecological pyramid is a graphical representation of the number, biomass or energy content of organisms at successive trophic levels in an ecosystem.

Mention the type of pyramid before describing its shape. Number, biomass and energy pyramids do not always behave in the same way.

Nutrient cycling is the repeated movement of essential elements between living organisms and the physical environment through biological, geological and chemical processes.

In nutrient cycle answers, identify the reservoir first, then explain how the nutrient enters organisms and returns to the environment.