An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their physical environment. It includes all the plants, animals, microorganisms, and the non-living components like soil, water, and air.
Ecosystems can be as small as a puddle or as large as an ocean. They function as a unit, with energy flowing through food chains and nutrients cycling between living and non-living components.
Diverse ecosystems across the planet support millions of species
Forests cover 31% of Earth's land and host 80% of terrestrial species. They regulate climate and produce oxygen.
Oceans cover 71% of Earth's surface and contain 97% of Earth's water. They support diverse marine life.
Deserts cover 33% of Earth's land and are home to specially adapted plants and animals that survive extreme conditions.
Grasslands cover 40% of Earth's land and support large herbivores and predators. They are crucial for agriculture.
Freshwater ecosystems include lakes, rivers, and wetlands. They contain 41% of all fish species.
Mountains cover 27% of Earth's land and provide freshwater for over half of humanity.
How ecosystems benefit humans and support life on Earth
Food, water, timber, fiber, and medicine provided by ecosystems.
Climate regulation, flood control, disease regulation, and water purification.
Recreation, spiritual enrichment, aesthetic beauty, and educational value.
Nutrient cycling, soil formation, photosynthesis, and primary production.
Human activities are putting pressure on ecosystems worldwide
Rising temperatures and extreme weather events disrupt ecosystems and species distribution.
Plastic, chemicals, and waste contaminate air, water, and soil, harming wildlife and human health.
Deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture destroy natural habitats and fragment ecosystems.
Overfishing, hunting, and resource extraction deplete species and disrupt food webs.
Non-native species outcompete native species and alter ecosystem dynamics.
Join the effort to restore and preserve ecosystems for future generations