Types of Ecosystems

Ecosystems have their unique set of characteristics and some major types of ecosystems are:

Natural Ecosystem

A natural ecosystem is a self-sustaining ecosystem in which both living and non-living entities occur freely in nature. It doesn’t require the intervention of humans.

  • Desert Ecosystems: Desert Ecosystems are characterized by arid conditions and minimal precipitation. Plants like cactus and animals like camels have evolved to adapt to these harsh environments.
  • Polar Ecosystems: Polar Ecosystems are found in the extreme cold regions. These ecosystems include the Arctic and Antarctic. Some examples of animals found in polar ecosystems are polar bears, penguins and seals.

Human-Made Ecosystem

In human-made ecosystems, the biotic and abiotic components are made to interact with each other for their survival. A human-made environment requires intervention from humans for its survival.

  • Urban Ecosystems: Human-made environments such as cities and towns from urban ecosystems. These areas may lack the biodiversity of natural ecosystems but they show the adaptability of some species to urban living.

What is a Natural Ecosystem?

Natural ecosystems are self-sustaining and do not require human intervention. Natural Ecosystems are the outcome of interactions between living things and their surroundings. A few examples are lakes, woods, oceans, and deserts. A natural ecosystem is a big, interconnected community where plants, animals, and the environment work together to create a balanced environment.

The components of an ecosystem are related directly and indirectly. In this article, we will read about natural ecosystems, their components, examples, types, and the differences between natural and artificial ecosystems.

Table of Content

  • What is an Ecosystem?
  • What is a Natural Ecosystem?
  • Components of Natural Ecosystem
  • Examples of Natural Ecosystems
  • Types of Ecosystems
  • Natural vs. Artificial Ecosystems
  • Classification of Ecosystem

Similar Reads

What is an Ecosystem?

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms like plants and animals and their environment. It includes the soil, air, and water. These components interact with each other and create a sustainable environment where life can thrive. Biotic components include plants, animals, and other living components. Abiotic components include rainfall, minerals, temperature, soil, air, and water, etc....

What is a Natural Ecosystem?

A natural ecosystem is a group of living and non-living creatures that interact with one another through biological, physical, and chemical processes. The formation of natural ecosystems is completely natural and unaffected by human action. An ecosystem in the natural world is self-sufficient. A forest, for example, is home to both herbivores and carnivores. Natural ecosystems can be divided into three categories: marine, aquatic, and terrestrial. Compared to most managed agroecosystems, natural ecosystems contain more species variety and niches....

Components of Natural Ecosystem

Every ecosystem possesses four components which are responsible for its functioning. These components are...

Examples of Natural Ecosystems

A few examples of Natural Ecosystems are:...

Types of Ecosystems

Ecosystems have their unique set of characteristics and some major types of ecosystems are:...

Natural vs. Artificial Ecosystems

Natural Ecosystems develop organically whereas artificial ecosystems are created by humans. Gardens, parks and aquariums are examples of artificial ecosystems. Human-made ecosystems have various purposes but they lack the resilience of natural ecosystems. A natural ecosystem has more diverse species than an artificial ecosystem. An artificial ecosystem requires the intervention of humans for its sustenance but on the other hand, a natural ecosystem is self-sustaining....

Classification of Ecosystem

The ecosystems are divided into Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems:...

Conclusion

In conclusion, natural ecosystems are the interaction of living and non-living elements of our planet. Understanding the diversity of ecosystems is crucial for the health of the Earth. The ecosystem is important for the continuity of life. Natural ecosystems can survive without the help of humans and thus are known as self-sustaining. Interruptions from humans in natural ecosystems can cause disruptions in the whole process....

FAQs on Natural Ecosystem

What is meant by Natural Ecosystem?...