Living things, known as biotic components, are really important for how ecosystems work. Here are some key players:
Producers (Autotrophs): These are plants, algae, and some tiny bacteria that use sunlight to make their own food. They do this process called photosynthesis. For example, tiny organisms in the ocean called phytoplankton produce about half of the world’s oxygen!
Consumers (Heterotrophs): These are animals that eat plants (herbivores), other animals (carnivores), or both (omnivores). They rely on producers and other consumers for energy. When energy moves from one group to another, only about 10% is passed along.
Decomposers: These include fungi and bacteria that break down dead plants and animals. They help return important nutrients back into the soil. About 90% of nutrients can be recycled this way!
In short, living things help boost primary productivity, which is super important for keeping food chains healthy and ecosystems balanced.
Living things, known as biotic components, are really important for how ecosystems work. Here are some key players:
Producers (Autotrophs): These are plants, algae, and some tiny bacteria that use sunlight to make their own food. They do this process called photosynthesis. For example, tiny organisms in the ocean called phytoplankton produce about half of the world’s oxygen!
Consumers (Heterotrophs): These are animals that eat plants (herbivores), other animals (carnivores), or both (omnivores). They rely on producers and other consumers for energy. When energy moves from one group to another, only about 10% is passed along.
Decomposers: These include fungi and bacteria that break down dead plants and animals. They help return important nutrients back into the soil. About 90% of nutrients can be recycled this way!
In short, living things help boost primary productivity, which is super important for keeping food chains healthy and ecosystems balanced.