How is an ecosystem defined?

An ecosystem is defined as a community of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. This definition encompasses not only the variety of species that inhabit a particular area but also the complex relationships and interactions they have with one another and with their physical surroundings, such as air, water, and soil.

In detail, an ecosystem includes various living organisms, from plants and animals to microorganisms, and emphasizes how these organisms interact with nonliving elements in their environment. These interactions can include predator-prey relationships, competition for resources, and symbiotic relationships, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining the balance and health of the ecosystem.

Other options may focus on specific aspects of ecology, such as only the relationships among similar species, the climate characteristics of a biome, or merely the existence of habitats. However, they do not capture the comprehensive nature of ecosystems, which requires understanding both the living components and their nonliving environments as an interconnected whole.