ecosystem
(imagine a forest ecosystem)
1. Consists of many species of plants and animals
2. Genetic diversity is very high
3. The sunlight is the energy source for autotrophs and this energy drives all biological cycles
4. Food chains are long and complex
5. Ecological succession takes place in a natural ecosystem over the period of time
6. Natural nutrient cycling ensures maximum and efficient cycling of nutrients
7. Productivity is extremely variable and depends on the environment. In tropical rainforest productivity is very high, but in deserts productivity is very low
