What defines an ecosystem?

An ecosystem is defined by the interaction between a community of living organisms—such as plants, animals, and microorganisms—and their physical environment, which includes elements like soil, water, and climate. This definition emphasizes the interconnectedness of organisms with one another and their surroundings, highlighting how these relationships result in the flow of energy and cycling of nutrients necessary for life.

In an ecosystem, living organisms depend on each other and on non-living factors to thrive. For instance, plants produce oxygen and food through photosynthesis, which is essential for animals, while animals contribute carbon dioxide during respiration, which plants use. This intricate web of interactions makes ecosystems dynamic and self-regulating.

Other options do not encompass the entire concept of an ecosystem. A collection of genetic data refers more to genetic diversity rather than ecological interactions. A group of organisms of the same species is indicative of a population, while a network of human interactions might pertain to social structures, which is not directly related to the biological and ecological components that define ecosystems.