FOCUS QUESTION

What makes up an ecosystem and how is it sustained?

The map breaks this topic into its core concepts, connected by labeled relationships. Each link is written so it can be read as a complete statement — not just an unlabeled line between boxes.

Concepts and relationships

  • Ecosystem includes Biotic Factors.
  • Ecosystem includes Abiotic Factors.
  • Biotic Factors contains Producers.
  • Biotic Factors contains Consumers.
  • Biotic Factors contains Decomposers.
  • Ecosystem sustained by Energy Flow.
  • Ecosystem sustained by Nutrient Cycling.

How to read this map

Separate the living (biotic) from non-living (abiotic) factors, then see how energy flow and nutrient cycling connect them.

Learning objectives

  • Distinguish biotic and abiotic factors.
  • Identify producers, consumers and decomposers.
  • Explain energy flow and nutrient cycling.
  • Describe how ecosystems stay balanced.
Review standard: Terms were checked against standard secondary-school biology descriptions. Sources: OpenStax Biology 2e — Ecosystems.