An ecosystem consists of all the living things in a specific area, along with the non-living, physical components they interact with.

Ecosystems can range in size from very small, like a rockpool, to very large, like a woodland.

Biotic factors refer to the living parts of an ecosystem.

Abiotic factors are the non-living, physical parts of an ecosystem.

1. Light intensity
2. Temperature
3. Water availability
4. Oxygen availability
5. Edaphic factors

As light is required for photosynthesis, greater availability of light increases the success of most plant species.

In areas of low light, plants may have larger leaves or photosynthetic pigments that require less light.

1. Temperature affects the enzymes controlling metabolic reactions
2. Warmer temperatures may allow plants and ectothermic animals to develop faster
3. Changes in the temperature can trigger migration and/or hibernation in some animal species
4. Changes in the temperature can trigger leaf fall, dormancy and/or flowering in some plant species

1. Leads to water stress in most plants and animals, which may lead to death
2. Causes most plants to wilt, as water is required to keep cells turgid
3. Reduces photosynthesis rates as photosynthesis requires water, which may lead to plant death

Oxygen is required by all aerobic organisms for respiration to release energy.

In low-oxygen environments, such as warm, slow-moving water or waterlogged soil, aerobic organisms will struggle to obtain the oxygen they require and may die.

Edaphic factors relate to soil type.

Different soil types have different particle sizes, which affect the organisms that are able to survive in them.

Ecology is the study of the relationships between organisms and their environment.

It helps us understand the interdependence of living organisms.