An ecosystem is a complex and interconnected community of living organisms (such as plants, animals, and microorganisms) and their physical environment (which includes soil, water, and air).
Ecosystems can range in size from small ponds or forests to entire biomes like deserts or rainforests.
They function as ecological units where organisms interact with each other and with their surroundings, exchanging energy and matter.
Ecosystems provide essential services, including nutrient cycling, oxygen production, and habitat support, and they are critical for maintaining the balance of life on Earth.