What is the relationship between the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems?

The cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems are intricately linked and mutually dependent. Matter, in the form of nutrients and compounds, is constantly being cycled through the biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, soil, water, and the atmosphere. This cycling includes processes like photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and nutrient uptake by organisms. Energy, on the other hand, flows through ecosystems from the sun to producers, consumers, and decomposers, through processes like photosynthesis and respiration. The cycling of matter and energy is essential for the functioning and equilibrium of ecosystems, as it ensures the availability of nutrients for organisms and enables the transfer and transformation of energy throughout the food web. Without these cycling processes, ecosystems would not be able to sustain life and maintain their productivity.

This mind map was published on 3 October 2023 and has been viewed 63 times.