Which one among the following phenomena includes processes, such as production, predation, nutrient transformation, and the influx and efflux of energy and materials ?
[amp_mcq option1=âEcological functionâ option2=âEcosystem functionâ option3=âEcosystem structureâ option4=âBiogeochemical cyclesâ correct=âoption2âł]
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF â 2011
The phenomenon that includes processes like production, predation, nutrient transformation, and the influx and efflux of energy and materials is known as ecosystem function.
Ecosystem functions are the physical, chemical, and biological processes that take place within an ecosystem. These include primary production (conversion of light energy into organic matter, âproductionâ), consumption (herbivory, predation), decomposition (breakdown of organic matter, leading to ânutrient transformationâ), and the overall flow of energy and cycling of materials (âinflux and efflux of energy and materialsâ). These processes describe how an ecosystem works and maintains itself.