Definition of ecosystem: UPSC Prelims PYQ 2015

Which one of the following is the best description of the term ‘ecosystem’?

1. A community of organisms interacting with one another
2. That part of the Earth which is inhabited by living organisms
3. A community of organisms together with the environment in which they live
4. The flora and fauna of a geographical area

Explanation

Option (c) is correct

• A community of organisms interacting with one another → Ecological community.
• Earth inhabited by living organisms → Biosphere.
• A community of organisms together with the environment in which they live → Ecosystem.
• The flora and fauna of a geographical area → Biodiversity.

Answer: (c) A community of organisms together with the environment in which they live; Difficulty Level: Easy