Ecological Systems Vocabulary

a biological community of interacting organisms and their environment

“Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth.”

involving interaction between two different organisms living in close association

“Bees and flowers have a symbiotic relationship.”

native and restricted to a certain place

“Many endemic species are found only in Madagascar.”

originating or occurring naturally in a particular place

“Indigenous plants require less water than imported species.”

the variety of plant and animal life in an environment

“The rainforest's biodiversity is unmatched anywhere on Earth.”

a large naturally occurring community of flora and fauna

“The tundra biome is characterized by permafrost and low temperatures.”

the natural home or environment of an organism

“Deforestation destroys the habitat of countless species.”

a position or role within an ecosystem

“Each species occupies a specific ecological niche.”

a state of balance between opposing forces

“Ecosystems maintain a delicate equilibrium.”

the tendency toward a relatively stable equilibrium

“The body maintains homeostasis through various feedback mechanisms.”